
whW'U'^l' <''><'''^ :'■ ^''■ 















.0^ 









































'^0^ 










-^ <^ ^; 






V cA^ .'l^lfe^ ^. <^ /. 

o 

" c ^ "^ 








ABBmm^^ 



OF 



Tlie Ijiterary and Philosophical Society 



OF 



t SOUTH-CAROLINA, 



TO 



THE PEOPIiE OF THE STATE 



ON 



jBl^t OriassificatioiT, CC^aracter, anir JZxtxtin^^^ 



OR 



THE OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES 



OP 



WITH A VIEW 



TO 



ITS GENERAL INTRODUCTION 



INTO 



^ur Towns^ Tillages, aud the ConntiT 9t larg^ 



CHARLESTON: 

OSSERVER OFFICE PRESS. 

1834. 



TABIiE OF €03fTENTS. 



PAGE . 

Introduction and Resolution, --.--..5 

Origin of Lyceums, La Harpe's, ------ 7 

First American Lyceum, --.---..g 
I. Different kinds of Lyceums, -----._ 9 

1. Family Lyceums, ---_--__!() 

2. Social and Neighborhood Lyceums, - - _ j H 

3. Village, Parish &c. Lyceums, ------ 12 

4. Class LNxeums, --- 13 

Example, -------___ Jb, 

Objections to weekly meetings answered, - - - 15 

5. District Lyceums, ----.-_.]6 

6. State Lyceums, ---.-... I7 
Advantages if extensively executed, - - - - - ib. 
Ditto, even if not, ----__». jg 
The American Lyceum at New- York, . - . _ 19 

IL Modes and Means of improvement, ----- ib, 

1. Lectures, -•------.-20 

2. Composition, --------- 21 

3. Debates, 22 

4. Conversation, ------_-_ 23 

One Lyceum may embrace all these — Example, - - - • 24 

III. Application of Lyceums to Professions, Arts, ^'c. - - 25 

1. To the Clergy, 26 

2. To Medical Men, ib. 

3. To the Bar, 27 

4. To the Mercantile Class, ib. 

5. To Planters and Farmers, ------- 28 

G. To Manufacturers and Mechanics, - - - . 29 

7. To Teachers — Examples ,----_-. ib. 
Other Lyceums, not professional, 32 

1. Natural History, ------. .jb. 

2. Works of Taste, .- 33 

i*. Political Economy, ------. .ib. 

4. Constitutional Law, -----.. ib. 

5. Dead and Living Languages, ------ 34 

Other instances and superior advantages, ... 35 

Value of Lyceums to Female Sex, ib. 

IV. Advantages and results of Lyceums, - - . - . 36 
1. Interferes with no other System, ----<»- ib. 



iv 

S. Adapted to the Spirit >f the Age, - - ^ r - 37 

3. Tendency to remove professional jealousy, - - - ib. 

4. Aids self-instruction and mutual instruction, promoted, - 38 

5. A means of preserving knowledge acquired at Schools, or in 

Colleges, - - - - 39 

6. Helps young persons who have finished their education, - 40 

7. Aids Parents to educate Children, - - - - - ib. 

8. Cultivates a taste for reading and mental improvement, - 41 

9. Will improve the character of conversation, - - - ib. 

10. And the standard of happiness and pleasures, - - -^ 42 

11 . Will aid the whole cause of LiteraturCy - » ^ - ib. 

12. Will contribute to independence of mind, ^ - ;- 43 

13. Fitted to diffuse popular knowledge, , - - - - 43 
Conclusion; .,.--.-*- - 44 



APPENi^i;!:. 

A. 

Origin of this Addr€!§s, - - --,-- ■•-4)(> 

Josiah Holbrook, -.,.--- ^ - - jb. 

The vaj-iety of Apparatus, ,---,.,-.47 
Lists and prices, 7 - - - ^ - - - - ib. 



B. 

Kumber of Lyceums, - r - - - - - -- - 48 

Exercises, _,-,..-"----- 49 

Boston Lyceums, ---^-----50 

Ladies' Lyceums, . - - ^ ib. 

Lyceums in New-York, Savannah, Kentucky, Massachusetts, - ib, 

Scamens' Lyceums, __-,.-_. ib. 



c. 

Measures to form a Lyceum, .- - - .- - - - 51 

Mistakes about Lyceums, -.---,- 52 

Constitution of a Town or Village Lyceum, - - , . 53 

Do of a District do. ^ - . - 54 

Do of a State do. 54 

Do vQf the AmericDin do. ~,. "i " < ^^' 



TO THE PEOPLE 

OF THE 

STJITE OF SOUTM'CMROljMJr^. 



Fellow-Citizens : 

THE Literary and Philosophical Society of South' 
Carolina, who have been much indebted to your liberality in 
former years, have recently had under consideration the sub- 
ject of Lyceums. After having fully discussed the various 
topics connected with the origin, progress, constitution, opera- 
tion and advantages of Lyceums, they adopted the following 
Resolutions : 

''^Resolved, That an improved system of common Education j 
decidedly practical in its character, and universally diffused, is 
indispensable to the security and strength of our civil, political 
and religious institutions, as well as to the general intellectual 
improvement of the community. 

'•'Resolved^ That the co-operation of the friendsof such a 
system in various parts of our country, is essential to secure, 
in their full extent, the benefits to be derived from common 
Schools ; and that such co-operation is practicable. 

^'Resolved, That the Lyceum System affords a plan of op5- 
'fations, well fitted to produce both uniformity and efficiencj', 
in promoting Education and diffusing knowledge. 

'"'Resolved, That a National Society for the attainment of 
these objects, as contemplated in the mstitution of the Ame- 
rican Lyceum at New-York, is worthy of the attention and 
co-operation of all the friends of morals, Literature, sound 
instruction and general intelligence." 

Having thus, after much deliberation, come to the conclu- 
sion, ttiat Lyceums are useful institutions, they felt them- 
selves bound, not only on ordinary principles of patriotism, but 
specially on account of the gratitude due to the State for 
1 



6 

fators conferred, to lay before you such views and suggestions' 
as may enable you to judge for yourselves of the expediency 
of the Lyceum System. They adopted, therefore, at a sub- 
sequnnt meeting, the following Preamble and additional Re- 
s'olutions, and appointed us to execute the scheme proposed : 

" The Literary and Philosophical Society of South-Car- 
olina, having already adopted four resolutions expressing their 
opinion, 1st. of the importance of an improved scheme of 
common Education ; 2d. of the value of co-operation by the 
friends of such a plan throughout our country ; 3d. of the effi- 
ciency and usefulness of the Lyceum System; and 4th. of the 
advantages to be derived from the National Society already 
established at New-York, under the name of the American 
Lyceum — 

" Therefore Resolved., That it is our duty, and that it well 
becomes the Literary and Philosophical Society of South- 
Carolina, not to rest satisfied with a mere declaration of opin- 
ion, recorded on their journals: but that having taken up, 
discussed and approved the Lyceum System^ it is our duty to 
the public of this City and State, to lay it before them, in all 
its important and interesting features, and thus to afford them 
an opportunity of deciding for themselves, whether the system 
cannot be adopted as profitably in South- Carolina, as in other 
parts of the Union. 

"■ Resolved., therefore., That a Committee of three be ap- 
jxjinted, in conformity with these obligations of the Society, to 
take the lead in this matter, and that said Committee prepare 
an Address to the People of this State, on the origin, consti- 
tution, operation, and advantages of Lyceums, recommending 
the system to their adoption, but leaving it to them to execute 
it as they may judge to be most advisable, in the form of 
family and social, or neighborhood Lyceums, of Parish and 
District Lyceums, and of a State Lyceum, representing all 
the rest, directly or indirectly ; and consulting on the best 
modes of advancing the welfare of all their constituents. 

" Resolved., That said Committee be authorized to publish 
and circulate the Address extensively throughout the State, in 
such mode as may appear most expedient to them; and that 
they be further empowered to raise the necessary funds, by 
subscription or donation." 

'^ In the discharge of the duty thus entrusted to us, we shall 

endeavor to make you acquainted with the origin^ progress^ 

constitution and advantages of Lyceums^ 



The origin of the word is to bo found in Grecian Literature. 
The Lyceum was a Grove in the suburbs of Athens, origin- 
ally devoted to military exercises; but in the time of Aristotle j 
it was employed by him for the delivery of his lectures. Here, 
he taught in the morning a select number of disciples, and 
instructed them in that elevated philosophy, which Alexander 
rebuked him for having published to the world. In the after- 
noon, he taught in like manner by lectures, the young men of 
Athens promiscuously. Aristotle occupies a very high station 
among the most eminent Philosophers . of the ancient and 
modern world. But we may remark of him, and of all tlie 
Schools of Ancient Philosophy, that whatever may have been 
the genius and learning of the Professors, and whatever the 
number of their disciples, and the duration of their Schools, 
they produced no stnsihle effects on the great body of the peo- 
ple. They left behind them no vestiges of a salutary influ- 
ence over manners and morals, over the cause of General 
Education, or over civil and political institutions. The rea- 
son was, that the schemes of the Ancient Philosophy did not 
comprehend the general instruction of the People, embracing 
both sexes, and all ages and conditions. Tire same defect 
existed in the Museum, founded in France by Pilatre de Ro- 
zier, the Cabinet and Library of which were sold: as the 
patrons were unable to sustain the institution. To this suc- 
ceeded the Lyceum established by La Harpe at Paris in 
1786; but whose object was limited to the improvement of a 
select company of the educated of both sexes, meeting toge- 
ther at staled times. " Thus," says La Harpe, " the French 
nation will not boast in vain of having known better than all 
others the advantages of sociability, and all the pleasures of 
virtuous souls and cultivated minds. There shall be found a 
place where amateurs may assemble to study the master pie- 
ces of the human mind: and from which most happily will 
not be excluded that sex, whose very presence gives to in" 
struction forms more sweet and attractive ; inspires all, even 



8 

tlie least, educated with that propriety and diffidence, so esseilr 
tial in literary assemblies; and with unerring tact and lively 
sensibility, communicates to every impression a higher charm 
and more striking effect." 

It is obvious that the Lyceum of La Ilarpe was very limit- 
ed, as to the number of persons over whom it exercised an 
influence, and as to the objects it embraced. Science and Li- 
terature, in their advanced state of improvement, were the 
materials; whilst the learned, philosophical and polished, the 
man of genius and the man of taste, were at once masters and 
disciples. Such an institution was fitted to produce noble re^ 
suits: and we feel assured, if the French Revolution had not 
blasted its usefulness, and polluted its character, it would not 
have been our sole consolation to know, that the only fruits 
which remain, are the comprehensive and valuable works of 
La Harpe, entitled Lyceum or course of Literature, ancient 
and modern. Although our American Lyceum System 
should never produce such a work, we have at least the satis- 
faction to know, that the sphere of its influence is more com- 
prehensive, that its objects are more practical, that the means 
employed are more various, and that popular instruction and 
entertainment are the great end — In a word, it is a system, in 
which THE PEOPLE are the instruments, by which it proposes 
to work: and the very end of its creation. It cannot subsist 
without them : it ought not to exist, unless it contributes libe- 
rally and permanently to their improvement in knowledge, 
virtue and happiness. It is truly a republican institutioji. 

We record with pride and pleasure the fact, that the first 
Lyceum was founded by thirty or forty farmers and mechanics 
in the town of Millbury in Massachusetts, under the name of 
the Millbury branch of the American Lyceum, Thus, those 
patriotic individuals recognized in the name of their Society, 
the certainty of the future existence of a great and wide 
spread Lyceum System, bearing the universal name of Ame- 
rican. They have not beei) disappointed, for already t|ie 



9 

scheme lias taken deep root in many parts of our country : anil 
nearly three thousand of these institutions are scT.ered 
throughout the Union. The hun>ble association at Mjllbury, 
has been lost sight of in the multiplication of similar Ly- 
ceums ; but it never will be forgotten, whilst the history of the 
system is known, and its popular, practical character and ad- 
vantages are duly appreciated. The first star, which emerges 
from the darkness of a sky long overcast, becomes the harbin- 
ger of bright days to the farmer, sailor and traveller : anS 
though lost, it is not forgotten, amid the croud of its bright 
companions, that glitter over the whole expanse of heaven. 

AVe proceed now, ill execution of the important duty as-* 
signed us, to lay before you the constitution, exercises, opera- 
tion and advantages of the Lyceum System. It is essentially 
a popular and a representative system; and depends on the 
industry, zeal and love for improvement of its members. We 
trust that the view, which we shall present of the manifold 
advantages of Lyceums, will recommend them extensively 
throughout our State: and that hundreds of our educated men 
will be found, taking the lead in establishing them in towns, 
villages and neighborhoods. We are well assured, that they 
will be found to deserve the patronage of every intelligent 
man, of every philanthropist, and good citizen of South-Car- 
olina. 

It is obvious that the distribution of Lyceums under distinct 
iiames, must vary with the modes of designating sections of 
country in different parts of the Union. We have no minute 
subdivisions of territory, analogous to what are called towns 
in the Northern States, and townships in the Northwestern, 
We must, therefore, adapt our nomenclature to our peculiari- 
ties, arising in a good measure out of our scattered popula- 
tion. In this sense of the subject, our Lyceum System would 
consist, first, of family Lyceums ; second, of social or neigh- 
bourhood Lyceums ; third, of class Lyceums ; fourth, of pnr- 



10 

isb, beat companyj village or town Lyceums ; fifth, of district 
Lyceums ; and sixth, of a State Lyceum. 

I. The first view, tlien, which we shall present of the Ly- 
ceum System, is the relative arrangement of all the parts, 
beginning with the Family Lyceum as the simplest, humblest 
form, and ascending to the State Lyceum. We must observe, 
however, that altliough the parts are capable of being moulded 
into the harmony of a great and complex system, it is not 
mdispenable that they should be. Thus, we might have 
two thousand Family Lyceums in the State, and none of any 
other description ; yet great benefits would be derived from 
lliem, not merely to the particular subjects of their influence ; 
but to all with whom they had intercourse. As already stated, 
the improvement of a single individual, is an advantage to the 
cQmmunit3\ How much more so then, the improvement of a 
^single family! Let the number of cultivated families be ten 
thousand ; and how signal would be the gain to society ! The 
same remark applies to all the other elementary Lyceums ; but 
not of course to such as are found on the representative prin-^ 
ciple. These cannot exist without those. We proceed, then, 
to explain the different character of the several species of 
Elementary and Representative Lyceums. 

1. The Family Lyceum may exist, wherever there is a 
family, containing a sufficient number of persons, desirous and 
susceptible of improvement. There is of course no fixed 
number, and circumstances will best determine what number is 
sufficient. The chief, perhaps the only mode of improvement 
in the family Lyceum, is conversation; tho', occasionally 
something may be expected from the best informed member 
partaking of the nature, tho' without the forms of a Lecture 
or Essay. This species of Lyceum is of peculiar value to 
families residing in the country : and deprived, therefore, of 
many of the advantages enjoyed by those, that live in towns or 
even in villages. Doubtless, a great many families spend sqv- 



ii 



eral eveuings of the week, in mutual reading, and in convef * 
sation : and we may be asketJ, is not that family already a 
Lyceum ? We reply that it is in some measure siich ; but the 
leading points of difference arc, we apprehend, very import- 
ant. They are these : First, particular evenings are set 
apart. Every one knows the value of fixing a time for the 
stated discharge of any duty : and how much the anticipation 
of it renders it - peculiarly agreeablcr Second, a particular 
subject is taken up and followed out, until a familiar know- 
ledge is acquired of it. This has certainly a great advantage 
over desultory reading and conversation. Third, the young 
persons of a family are brought into the Household Lyceum, 
aiid the exercises are such, as to advance their improvement in 
valuable and interesting knowledge. Will it be denied, other 
things being equal, that the Lyceum Family must, in a course 
of years, become very superior to another, destitute of their 
method of cultivation I 

2. The second class of elementary Lyceums is, that which 
we denominate the Social and Neighborhood Lyceum. This 
is composed of as many persons, including families, as situa- 
tion, the number in any one or more households, familiar inter- 
course, Slc. may render advisable. We believe,- that twelve 
would be a good medium number. This Lyceum meets once 
or twice a week, by turns at the houses of the members ; in the 
afternoon, or evening, or both, as may be decided. The So- 
cial is the appropriate name in the town or city where the 
members would most probably consist of friends, collected 
from different parts, without regard to distance ; the selection 
being determined by previous intimacy, rather than b}' prox- 
imity of situation. The Neighborhood Lyceum is appropri^ 
ate to the country^ where the members are led to associate 
chiefly on the principle of being neighbors, in the habit of 
visiting each other. This Lyceum has a still further advan- 
tage over the usual intercourse of visits, besides the three already 
mentioned in relation to Family Lyceums. Visiting would 



12 

€^ase to be any longer a mere matter of cefemoily or social 
pleasure ; and would become a permanent source of friendly 
interchanges and of mutual improvement, each imparting and 
receiving benefit. We presume it will hardly be doubted, that 
those who meet together with such views, must become more 
valuable and interesting acquaintances, and cannot fail to love 
and to be loved, with a more rational attachment, than those 
who assemble only to keep up etiquette, or to chat pleasantly 
together. The fact of meeting regidarly, for a specific object, 
and that object useful as well as agreeable^ presents the Neigh- 
borhood Lyceum, as far superior to the usual intercourse of 
visits, whether in town or country * It ought to be added, that 
the greater length of time devoted to the exercises of the 
Social or Neighborhood Lyceum, than to customary visits, 
dispenses at once with ail formal visiting, and substitutes a 
virtuous, rational interest in one another's welfare, for those 
ceremonious calls, and irregular and often uncertain visits, 
which consume much time to little or no purpose. 

3. The third class of elementary Lyceums is, that of the 
Village, Parish, or such other subdivision of territory, as may 
be found convenient. Perhaps Beat Company Districts may 
be, in many parts of this State, of suitable extent. These 
Lyceums are to be chiefly composed of the principal mem- 
bers of Family and of Social or Neighborhood Lyceums, in 
point of improvement, and zeal in the cause, and who can 
spare the time to attend both. Other persons also, who fed 
the same interest, should join them. This Lyceum is not re- 
presentative ; because the persons forming it are not selected 
by the Family, or Social, or Neighborhood Lyceums, and 
other individuals may be members. The reason why the 
principal members of these others are chiefly to compose it, 
is to fit them the better to discharge the duties of those other 
Lyceums, out of which they come. The exercises of this 
species of Lyceum, should be of a higher order, than in those 
we have already mentionfed; One subject worthy of parti*^ 



13 

cular attention ai suitable times, should be the best subjects, 
and books, and modes of improvement in the three former 
elementary Lyceums; The interchange of opinions, expe- 
rience and counsel, would strengthen the bonds of union, and 
accelerate the advance both of the superior and inferior Ly- 
ceums. They ought to meet once a week ; at farthest, once a 
fortnight ,*at one another's houses. 

4. In cities, and large towns, or in very populous neighboN 
hoods, another description of Lyceums may be formed, which 
cannot perhaps be better designated than by the name of 
Class Lyceums. It is obvious that Lyceums, correspondent 
to the Village, Parish or Beat Company Lyceums, may and 
ought also to be founded in large towns and cities, and should 
be formed in like manner ; so that the Family and Social 
or Neighborhood Lyceums of towns and cities, would have the 
same opportunities and means of deriving improvement from 
such institutions. But Class Lyceums are to be formed chiefly, 
if not wholly of those, who do not belong to any of the spe- 
cies already mentioned. The object of these is to bring toge- 
ther such persons as would otherwise pursue separately the 
same branches of knowledge, upon the principle, that union 
in learning the same things has, for most persons, immense 
advantages over solitary, independent efforts. Both attention 
to and interest in the subject, are increased many fold. A 
lively, yet perfectly virtuous emulation springs up, and the 
consciousness of reciprocal encouragement and aid, adds the 
pleasure of doing and receiving good^ to the satisfaction of 
personal improvement. How pure also, and cordial, and kind 
are the intimacies thus formed ! 

The Class Lyceum is, of course, like all the rest, a volun- 
tary association. The number to compose it may be large, 
compared to the Family or Social Lyceum. The means by 
which its exercises may be carried on, may be all the font 
methods described at the commencement of this Address, 

vJTj. Lectures, Essays. Debates, and Conversation, It might, 
o 



14 

if so nmny could be found pursuing the ^ame course, embracer 
a hundred members, with a view to the first mode of improve- 
ment by Lectures. But with a view to all the four, suppose 
such a Lyceum in a city or large town, to consist of forty 
members, let it meet once a month for Lectures, once a 
month for Essays, once a month for Debates, and once a 
month for Conversation. As a Lecture Lyceum,^ the whole 
would meet together, and four persons, by delivering each 
three lectures, would occupy the year As an Essay Lyceum, 
let it meet in two divisions, each comprising twenty members. 
The four who deliver the Lectures, are not to be called on for 
any exercise in composition, during the three months allotted 
^0 each for lectures. Twenty-four Essays will carry the mem- 
bers thro' the year, allotting two to each night of meeting. 
Let the same persons meet in like manner, as a Moot Lyceum 
in two subdivisions, each of twenty. If, then, four be appoint- 
ed to debate each evening, they would require forty-eight 
speakers for the twelve months, so that each member would; 
speak about twice a year regularly ; tho' it ought to be un- 
derstood and expected, that others, if there be time, should 
take part in the discussion. Let the same persons meet as a 
Conversation Lyceum, in four sections of ten persons each, 
once a month. No exemption need be claimed here for the 
lecturers, essayists and debaters; whether the subjects be the 
same or different from those treated in the former modes^ 
Perhaps, however, the best rule would be^ to appoint for con- 
versation, the very topics treated of, the three preceding eve- 
^ngs. All this, however, would be left to each section. We 
would suggest as advisable, that the divisions of twenty, and 
the subdivisions of ten, should be formed anew every year, so 
that an exchange of members may take place, by transferring 
half of each division into the other, and half of each subdivi- 
sien into another. This rotation will have the advantage of 
producing a more intimate union and cordial intercourse than 
could prevail, if the divisions and subdivisions consisted per- 



15 

Mianently of the same persons. In this case, they would be 
like distinct Societies, having no common bond of union, but 
the monthly lectures. The Class Lyceums embrace all the 
•modes of improvement recommended in Dr. Watts* admira- 
ble practical treatise on the improvement of the mind. They 
have also this further recommendation, that they fully meet 
the just and felicitous thoughts of Lord Bacon, when he says, 
that reading makes a full man, writing a correct man, and con- 
versation a ready man. To this we may add, that the Class 
Lyceum cultivates all the best means of public and private 
influence in the cause of Religion and our Country, and in the 
cause of Literature, sound morals and general improvement. 

The question may be asked, where is the Class Lyceum to 
meet? We reply, that the conversation subdivisions may 
very well meet like the Neighborhood or Social Lyceums, at 
the houses of the members successively. So, at Essay Ly- 
t:eums, the divisions may meet in like manner, at one another's 
houses. As Moot Lyceums, they may do the same ; unless 
they prefer a room procured for the purpose, as is usual witli 
debating Societies. As a Lecture Lyceum, it must be ex- 
pected that they should hire a suitable place : and this would 
answer, by meeting on different nights of the week, for the 
Moot Lyceum Divisions. 

It may perhaps be said, that weekly meetings cannot be 
productive of any very great advantage : and yet that more 
frequent meetings are not practicable ; because so many other 
engagements, personal, family or social, require all the other 
nights of the week. We «ay nothing of the many extra calls 
on our time. We might answer by a single illustration. The 
Sunday School System is a weekly one : and yet who doubts 
that it has produced most important results, as to the intellec- 
tual, as well as moral and religious improvement of the Scho- 
lars? But let us take this view. Most of the persons who 
would attend the weekly Lyceums, would not dedicate the 
Jioiurs thus saved, to any specific, valuable object. Now, on 



16 

tiie stippositioii that tliey spend two hours together, that tliey 
devote one to reading, and one to conversation on the subject 
treated of; and that they read only twenty pages in the first 
hour, they would have read during the year one thousand and 
forty pages, (1040) and have held intelligent conversation 
for fifty-two hours upon them. Select any book which is fit- 
ted to improve the reader, and who will doubt the value of the 
plan 1 Suppose a class of ten were to meet in this manner, 
were in a series of years, to read Shuckford's, Russell's and 
Prideaux's Connections, and Mosheim^s Ecclesiastical History, 
would any one be willing to believe, that these one hundred 
and four hours per annum, would not have been very profit- 
ably employed? Suppose a class to devote a year in like 
manner to Ferguson on Civil Society, to the 1st vol. of Ro- 
bertson's Charles the Fifth, or to Villers on the Beformation, 
will any one question the substantial benefit, that would be 
derived from such a course ? Even if not a single member 
looked at the part appointed for the evening, until they mety 
there can be no doubt they would receive much benefit from 
the course thus recommended. 

5. We come now to the first in order of the representative 
kind, viz. the District Lyceum. This consists of Delegate^ 
from all the Social or Neighborhood, from the Village, Town, 
Parish or Beat Company Lyceum, and from the Class Ly- 
ceums. The object is to gather into one Council, once every 
two or three months, at some suitable, convenient spot, re- 
presentatives from all the above elementary Lyceums : in 
order by exchanging opinions on the Lyceum System gene- 
rally to improve each of the different kinds, by the experience 
of so many persons engaged in a common cause. Let the 
delegates be invited, alphabetically, or in any other order, to 
deliver their sentiments, on any particular branch of the gen- 
eral subject of Lyceums: and let one or more persons be 
requested to make sufficient memoranda of the material facts 
or principles, reasonings or illustrations presented by the 



17 

speakers.* Let tlicse be afterwards digested into a lleport or 
Address, by a Committee appointed for the purpose, and then 
distributed in Pamphlet form amonj^ the Elementary Lyceums. 
All will thus derive a joint benefit from the separate action and 
experience of each member of the Primary Lyceums. We 
shall, hereafter, show the great value of the Lyceum System, 
in regard to education and schools. At present we remark, 
that it is desirable to have many teachers sent as delegates 
from the Elementary Lyceums, that by exchanging opinions 
with each other, and with other intelligent persons, they may 
derive advantages from the representative branch of the Ly- 
f;eum System, to which they would otherwise be strangers. 

6. The next in order of the Representative Lyceums, is the 
State Lyceum. This consists of Delegates from the District 
Lyceums, and should meet at Columbia once a year, at an 
early day during the sitting of the Legislature, in order that 
many members of that body may become delegates ; as they 
would be able to attend early in the session. This body 
should appoint a Committee, whose duty it should be to pre- 
sent at the next meeting, such views of the system, both gen- 
eral and particular, as they might judge advisable. The 
Committee should be furnished in September, or in October 
at farthest, by all the District Lyceums, with their summaries 
already adverted to, that an Annual Report or Address may be 
prepared, and laid before the State Lyceum, at the anniver- 
sary meeting at Columbia. This Annual Report or Address 
should be printed and circulated extensively, copies being sent 
to every District Lyceum, and if practicable, to every Ly- 
ceum represented therein. 

This survey completes the State System of Lyceums : and 
it must be admitted by every candid, reflecting mind, that if it 
be completely organized and extensively executed, very great 
blessings must result to The People from its operations. 

* A Farmers' Lyceum in Massachusetts, collected in a single year, 
two volumes of factg and observatiocs, respecting their employments. 



18 

And who are The People, thus to be benefitted t We an- 
swer, not the people in the ordinary civil or political meaning 
of the term ; but the people in a broader and more compre- 
hensive sense, embracing the men and tlie women, the youth 
and even the children of the land. Sound moral and mental 
instruction is among the greatest blessings, which society can 
bestov/ on its incmbers : and among the richest returns of gra- 
titude, which the individual can make to the community, that 
has afforded the opportunities, means and encouragements for 
obtaining them. Give to two States a similarity of advan- 
tages in all respects. Then introduce the Lyceum System 
into one, and let it operate in its detailed, as well as general 
form, thro' a v/hole generation. Will any one doubt, that a 
most sensible change very far for the belter, would be found 
to exist in that State, and that it would have carried forward 
its inhabitants, far beyond the condition of mind and morals, 
in which tlie other would be found. Will you not then re- 
solve, that South- Carolina shall be the Lyceum State 1 and 
that the close of the present generation shall see her way far 
advanced, thro' its benign and salutary agency, beyond the 
station she now occupies, in mental and moral improvement. 

We would here remark, that even if the system as exhibited 
in the preceding pages, should not be carried out for several 
years, in all its harmony and completeness of parts, still 
very great advantages must result from the establishment of 
Elementary Lyceums throughout the State : Be not, there- 
fore, discouraged, tho' there should be no concert of action, in 
the forms of the Representative branch of the system, for 
some years to come. Let the subordinate department be car- 
ried into execution every where : and the District and State 
Lyceums may be expected to follow as a matter of course 
wherever the subordinate Lyceums, after being firmly esta- 
blished, and in successful operation, shall become duly sensi- 
ble, as they must, of the manifold advantages derivable from 
concert in action, and the interchange of experience. 



The same i^emarks apply to the American Lyceimi, v/hicfU 
meets amiually at New- York, and is composed of Delegates 
from State, Ten'itory and District (of Columbia) Lyceums, 
and of other persons invited by the Executive Committee. 
The very inconvenient seasons (for us at the South) at which 
the Anniversary is held, viz. in May, renders it little less than 
impossible for any one to attend as the representative of a 
Southern Lyceum. But whether our State System shall ever 
unite with and be represented in the American Lyceum, is at 
present a very minor consideration. Let us- create the State 
System first : and then we may safely leave the State L3xeum 
to decide for itself and its constituents, whether it shall be re- 
presented in the National Society at New-York. That some 
benefit would be derived from such a connection, can be doubt- 
ed by no one, who admits the advantage of joint counsels and 
experience. The object of the American Lyceum, accord- 
iag to the 2d Article of the Constitution, *' is the advance- 
ment of education, especially in Common Schools, and the 
general diffusion of knowledge." And what objects can be 
more truly popular and republican, wise and benevolent I 
Common Schools form the great majority of youth, and pre- 
pare them to become the people of each succeeding gene- 
ration : while the general diffusion of knov/ledge, provides 
daily bread for the cultivation of their minds, and the improve? 
ment of their affections, thro' all the period of mature life. 

II. Having now explained the character and objeets of each 
. description of Lyceums, we proceed to make you acquainted 
with the means and modes of improvement, or the exercises em- 
ployed. Lyceums a.ve voluntary associations of such persons 
as desire to meet at stated intervals for self improvement and 
mutual improvement, thro' the medium of scientific composi- 
tions-called lectures,. or familiar compositions called Essays; 
or debates,. or subjects previously selected; or conversation or 
books'or topics, appointed by agreement at a prior meeting. 



2Q 

1. The Lecture System is adopted where men pretty tho^ 
i;oughly acquainted with important branches of moral or ph}'^- 
sical science, can be prevailed on to take the lead by giving 
courses of lectures on popular, practical branches of human 
knowledge, illustrating them by apparatus and experiment. In 
every educated community, there are many men perfectly 
capable of discharging this duty : and we trust, that public 
spirited individuals will come forward every where and offer 
their services. In the Lecture department it is obvious, that 
medical men and professors or amateurs in the natural sciences 
have vast advantages over those, whose lives are devoted to 
the cultivation of the moral sciences. Those address them- 
selves in a very great degree to the faculty of sights and not 
merely to that of hearing : they are continually appealing to 
the imagination and memory for the forms, relations and com- 
binations of visible objects ; they are able to prove so much 
of what they teach, thro' the mediums of diagrams, models, 
specimens and experiments, and they can so happily intermix 
the didactic with the descriptive style, reasoning with imagina- 
tion, and the recollection of principles with the memory of 
facts, that they ought to be, if they are not already, deeply 
sensible of their superior advantages and correspondent obli- 
gations. We think, then, that we do not overestimate the 
capacity for eminent usefulness of the above class of persons, 
when we refer to them as absolutely indispensable to the suc- 
cess of the Lecture department of the Lyceum. These per- 
sons have also this further advantage, that they are able to 
interest and instruct the comparatively uneducated, as well as 
the cultivated mind ; but lectures in the moral sciences, imply 
and require a considerable degree of intellectual improve- 
ment. From the same cause, the former can engage the 
attention of children and youth ; and confer on them lasting- 
benefits, by interesting them in the acquisition of valuable 
and entertaining knowledge, thro' the medium of visible objects. 



21 

But to medical men above all, the public must look for the 
lead in this matter ; because they exceed so many times in, 
number all others, who are devoted to the natural sciences. 
We would not, however, have it supposed, that others are not 
capable of delivering lectures, which would be attractive and 
useful. Clergymen and Lawyers, Merchants and Planters^ 
Master Mechanics and men of leisure genetally, if possessed 
of zeal, taste and knowledge, may rendef essential services 
by introducing a greater variety of subjects into the Lecture 
Lyceum. We trust that many such may be found willing to 
lend their aid in giving a full and fair experiment to this De- 
partment of the Lyceum System. We trust they will co- 
operate cheerfully in multiplying the sources of knowledge, 
and extending the opportunities for its acquisition. 

2. The Lecture department implies of course a consider- 
able superiority in the Lecturer over his audience, or at least 
over most of them. The same feature does not necessarily 
exist in the three other descriptions^ viz. the Essay, Moot and 
Conversation Lyceums. The object of the Essay Lyceum 
is, to cultivate composition on any subjects whatever, that the 
taste or pursuits of the writer may lead him to select. It is 
obvious that such a Lyceum should consist of a Small number of 
persons, a dozen being quite enough. This would secure to 
each member, that frequency of composition, which is indis- 
pensable to improvement in the art of writing. If two E$says 
were read at each meeting, they would furnish abundant ma- 
Wials for instruction and entertainment, by subjecting the 
pieces to the criticism of all present, as to facts, thoughts and 
lieasoning, and as to rhetoric and grammar. Such a Lyceum, 
in a single year, would make good writers out of indiiferent 
ones. It is manifest, that the art of writing is becoming every 
year more and more important in our Country, as an instru- 
ment of power, duty and usefulness. It is one of the chief 
peans of improving ourselves, and of enabling us to improve 

others, in any department of virtue, knowledge or business. 
3 



To be a good writer, is to possess a large share of power lo»' 
influence others. To acquire this power, is at once the duty 
and interest of all, 

3. The third department of the Lyceum System is that, in 
which the Lyceum becomes a Debating Society* This, like^ 
the second, implies a greater equahty among the membersv 
than is found in the first. It has, however, one advantage in 
common with the Lecture Lyceum, that besides the members^ 
the exercises may be attended with profit and pleasure by a- 
mixed audience ; who are almost always more interested by 
the variety and animation of a debate, than by Essays, how- 
ever well they may be written and read, A speaker of ordi- 
nary talents and information, without the advantages of figure^ 
countenance, voice and gesture, will fix the attention of an 
Audience, if he speak in the various, natural, easy manner of 
conversation, much more than a superior writer and reader. 
We may well make the same remark as to the Moot Lyceum, 
which has been made as to the Essay Lyceum. The art of 
speaking is continually becoming more and more important in 
our country. A vast amount of public business depends upoii 
this, both in legislative bodies and popular meetings of every 
description. A still greater amount of private business is con- 
finually transacted in this mode, in Courts, in corporate assem- 
blies, and at the meetings of Churches, Societies, Boards, 
Committees, &.c. &c. Hence, the great value of the Art of 
Extempore Speaking. We may say indeed, without fear of 
exaggerating, that the preservation, developement aiwl perfec- 
tion of our political, civil, and ecclesiastical, of our religious, 
ftioral, literary, benevolent and business institutions, are mainty 
dependent on these two great instruments of power and use- 
fulness. Without intending aught that is invidious by the 
remark, it appears to us very desirable, that a large portion of 
the business of our country, both in legislative and other 
bodies, should be managed by speakers, who belong to other 
walks of life than to the bar. Extempore specdiing is thfe 



^3 

rftusin€5s of the Bar; but it is the business of no other class c^ 
«rien. These, therefore, ought to feel it a duty to make and 
to pl-ofit by the opportunities for improvement in speaking, 
which the Moot Lyceum affords. The value of the Moot 
iiyceum becomes still more obvious when we consider, that in 
the present state of our Systems of Education, the exercise 
of the Lyceum is indispensable, to make up for the lament- 
able and strange neglect of extempore speaking as a regular 
branch of education in Colleges, Academies, and High 
Schools. 
4. The fourth and last in this arrangement, is the Conversa- 
tion Lyceum. This may consist of any number of persons^ 
that may choose to associate together, for the purposes of this 
mode of improvement. Its value is obvious to every one ; 
for who can be insensible to the importance of the art of cprtr 
versing agreeably and sensibly with ease and simplicity. Let 
it not be supposed, that the talent for conversation is not sus- 
ceptible of very great improvement. Why should it not be, 
as well as the art of writing and speaking? What is it but the 
art of speaking in short paragraplis, and byway of dialogue? 
And what is the art of speaking, but the art of continuous 
conversation ; where the speaker occupies the whole ground, 
acting himself the part of a debater on each side, and of an 
umpire or judge. It is to be remembered, that the greater 
part of persons, in most instances, require no other style of 
public speaking, than that which is characterized by the ease, 
simplicity and variety of intelligent, animated conversation. 
It is only at times, that the subject and the occasion justify 
what may be called the oratorical style of speaking. The 
Conversation Lyceum does not require, like the Lecture Ly- 
»ceuni, any great superiority of one or several persons as lead'" 
ors over the rest. All may be nearly equal, tho' considerable 
inequalities may advantageously exist. But it is better that all 
ihoiild ^e equal, than that one or two superior men should« 



24 

thro* inadvertency, engross the whole time to themselves!' 
Lecture Conversation may display the speaker ; but the hear- 
ers will never learn either his peculiar art, or the more valuable 
art of conversation. In the Conversation Lyceum, the ad- 
visable mode is to appoint subjects for each succeeding meet- 
ing, or a select chapter in some excellent author ; or to have 
some portion of a work read, to furnish the requisite materials 
for conversation: the reader pausing at intervals, to afford an 
opportunity for remarks on what has been read. 

We have thus presented to you the Lyceum System, with a 
view to the means and modes of instruction and improvement. 
Let it not, however, be supposed, that these four methods are 
so independent of each other, as not to admit of combination. 
On the contrary, there is no difficulty in establishing one Ly- 
ceum, which shall embrace them all. To illustrate. Let 
weekly Lyceums be formed, and a Lecturer provided for the 
first meeting. Let two of the members be selected by lot or 
otherwise, whose duty it shall be to present at the next meet- 
ing, two essays on the subject of the Lecture, to be criticised 
as already mentioned. At a third meeting, let the subject be 
debated by four other members, chosen in a similar manner. 
And at a fourth meeting, let the Lecture Essays and Debate 
form the subject of conversation. We speak with much con^ 
fidence when we say, that such a Lyceum, if the member? 
posssessed the requisite talent, information, energy and zeal, 
would be of immense advantage not only to themselves, but 
to the community, who would not only gain directly, as audi- 
tors of the Lecture and Debate, but indirectly by the im- 
provement of the members themselves : the actual advance- 
ment of any member of a Community in valuable knowledge^ 
being a benefit to all. We may remark, that this combination 
of all the methods of instruction, is more applicable to bran- 
ches of Moral than to those of Physical Science ; because 
from the very nature of the former, they admit of a greatc^ 



i>5 

variety of views, reasonings and illustrations, depending far 
more on matters of principle and opinion, than upon fixed 
laws and facts, as in the material world. 

III. We have thus completed (he view we designed to pre- 
sent of the modes or means of improvement, employed in the 
Lyceum System : and of the diflerent species of Elementary 
and Representative Lyceums. We now proceed, in the third 
place, to exhibit the application or use of the system, "as a 
method of moral and intellectual cultivation ; and shall then, 
in the fourth place, lay before you the advantages and results 
of the scheme. 

The Lyceum System being dedicated to practical purposes 
exclusively, and employing only practical instruments, is, 
therefore, essentially a practical system, depending upon the 
experience of intelligent men for its origin, progress and per- 
fection. We desire to treat it as such throughout this Ad- 
dress : and to recommend it on the strength of this quality. 
We now, therefore, ask your attention, while we lay before 
you the application and uses of the Lyceum System. Perr 
haps it may be asked, what are Literary and Philosophical 
Societies, Lectureships in Colleges and Universities, Debat- 
ing Cluba, Mechanics' Institutes, and Conversation parties, 
but Lyceums ? We reply, that they are. We have only 
given tQ an Old Name a more extensive application to Old 
Things, in order the more easily to embrace in one system 
all those various forms of improvement, and to give a more 
regular, extensive and frequent application to known methods 
of improvement : while the additional advantages are secur- 
ed of concerted action, and of the intercommunication of a 
large amount of experience. 

1. Perhaps, there is no object of human pursuit, to which 
ihe Lyceum System is not applicable. We shall present it to 
you, then, under various illustrations drawn from the Profes- 
sions, the Sciences, the Useful Arts, and the Fine Arts, 



26 

1. Of the" Professions. Let a Lyceum be formed of Cieiv 
svmen of different denominations, with a view to their im* 
provement, in the cultivation of any particular branch of com- 
mon knowledge. Let them meet once a week for a year for 
mutual aid in the study of Hebrew, and spend two or three 
hours together, and the majority will unquestionably be bettei' 
scholars at the end of that time, than if each had devoted 
twice or thrice the time to the same object. Let a second 
year be devoted to Greek, and the result will be the same. 
Can any one doubt the advantages, which they would derive 
from studying in the same manner, the evidences of Chris- 
tianity, the Jewish and Christian Antiquities, Pulpit Elo- 
quence, and other subjects common to various denominations 1 
In like manner, the Clergy of any particular denomination 
would find it an advantage, if a sufficient number could be 
obtained, to form an additional weekly Lyceum, for the study 
of sectarian points ; as the comparative advantages of written 
and extempore services, the history of Church Government, 
the questions of Orders in the Ministry, of Infant and Adult 
Baptism, of the Trinity, &c. &c We do not believe, that 
any Clergyman, who had attended either the general or secta- 
dan Weekly Lyceum, would ever speak of either, but with 
gratitude and pleasure. 

2. We come now to the Medical Profession. It strikes us, 
as a radical defect in the Professions of Theology and Medi- 
cine, still more than in the Law, that there is no system of 
mutual confidence and interchange of experience, at stated 
.periods. The Bar meet so frequently and necessarily, and 
hear so often one another's views and experience, that they 
derive great advantages from each other, without the forms of 
a Lyceum. But Medical men and Clergymen ace kept almost 
entirely apart from each other, by the very nature of their 
pursuits. Would not Physicians profit much by a weekly 
Lyceum, for the cultivation of particular branches of th^ 



27 

healing arti We cannot doubt that the members of such a 
Lyceum, would be much better instructed in Anatomy, Phy- 
siology, Materia Medica, &c. at the end of a year, than they 
. could be without it. 

3. Now, as to the Profession of Law, suppose a dozen 
Gentlemen of the Bar, to form a weekly Lyceum, and to 
spend a year on the history of the Common and Civil Law, 
9n the law of Executors and Administrators ; of Judgments 
and Executions; or onthe Statute Law of the State, as it alters 
or adds to the Common Law. We feel assured, that every 
member of that Lyceum would have an advantage on these 
subjects, over his brethren. Let the Lawyers resident at a 
Country Village, say Beaufort, Walterborough, Abbeville, 
York, Cheraw, (fee. form such a Lyceum, and their own good 
sense will foretel the benefits they will derive, and their ^pe- 
rience will amply justify our anticipations. We may remark, 
generally, that in all the three Professions, the younger mem- 
bers, who have more time to devote to such stated meetings, 
tire the persons chiefly to be benefitted r and to them we do 
most earnestly recommend the system of weekly Lyceums^ 
as a powerful means of social improvement. Nor can we 
fail to observe, that students in ihe three professions, would 
find themselves amply rewarded by forming Students' Ly- 
ceums, and meeting twice or thrice a week for mental im- 
provement. Would not the young men, particularly, v.ho 
•ittend our Medical Colleges in Charleston, find their account 
in arranging themselves into such Lyceums for better improve- 
ment in their common studies, and in preparing for stated 
examinations on the subjects of the Lectures they have 
attended for the two or three preceding days. 

4. To the Professions of Law, Medicine and Divinity, we 
acid with pleasure that of the Merchant. Tho' it involves less 
of learning, philosophy and literature, than the three precede* 
ing, it is, nevertheless, when rightly understood, a dignified, 
influential and valuable branch of practical knowledge, A 



28 

profession, which numbers in its ranks, such men as Lorenzo 
de Medici, Sir Thomas Gresham, the Koyal Merchant, th^ 
Barings, and the Rothschilds, is entitled to an eminent sta- 
tion among the noble and useful institutions of society. 
Whatever may be said of the past History of the A¥orld and 
of Commerce, it is manifest that a knowledge of the actual 
state of the World, and of Trade, Manufactures, and all the 
Arts, is indispensable to an intelligent Merchant transacting 
an extensive business. Political Economy, also, ought to be 
extensively understood, not only because it enters so largely 
into his own concerns; but because he is bound as a patriot 
to contribute his aid in enlightening the public mind on sub- 
jects of legislation, touching Commerce, Manufactures, and 
the useful Arts. We should rejoice to see Merchants' Ly- 
ceums established in all our Cities and Towns, both maritime 
and inland. We know they would be of great service to 
each member : and taking the aggregate of good, of still 
greater service to the community. 

5. The time has come, we trust, when the deep interest 
taken in agriculture, the establishment of societies, and the 
circulation of periodicals and other works, on the employ- 
ments of the Planter and Farmer, may be considered as hav- 
ing elevated the Art of Agriculture, to the rank of a profes- 
sion. If Theology, Medicine and Law, demand for them- 
selves exclusively the title of learned professions, the Mer- 
chant, Planter and Farmer, the Manufacturer and Mechanic, 
may claim for their pursuits, the just appellation of the useful 
professions. They are indeed the broad, solid basis, on 
which the otliers rest ; for the}' are practically the visible 
foundations of society. May we then be permitted earnestly to 
recommend, that Planters and Farmers throughout the State, 
establish Lyceums for the purpose of mutual improvement in 
the science and practice of Agriculture. No one surely can 
doubt the advantages to be derived from such institutions ; if 
our Planters and Farmers would eive them a fair and full trial. 



29 

Tlreir department of business is essentially practical^ and tlie 
Lyceum System is peculiarly fitted to such pursuits. 

6. The same remarks apply to the Manufacturer and Me- 
chanic, who may well be regarded as belonging to the useful 
professions. There was a time, when the profession of Arms 
was the only pursuit thought worthy of a Gentleman. All 
education and learning were in the hands of the Church ; 
while Commerce, Agriculture, and the useful Arty, were re- 
garded as fit only for the people, then considered merely as 
liewers of wood and drawers of water for the Gentry and 
Clergy, the privileged classes of society. But in our age, 
and especially in our Country, such absurd arrangements 
have disappeared : and the useful professions are, both m 
theory and practice, perfectly consistent with high character, 
extensive information, a large share of talent, and elevated 
station. We hope yet to see in our State, many Lyceums 
for these interesting classes of the community, satisfied that 
their own interests and happiness will be extensively pro- 
moted by them. 

7. We name last, but not least, as among the most honor- 
able of professions, that of a Teacher. Occupying in a 
most important particular, the responsible station of Parents 
and Giiardians, they are as indispensable to the successful 
operation of republican institutions, as the representative sys- 
tem, an independent judiciary, or the separation of the three 
great departments of government. Instructors cannot think 
too highly of their obligations, or of the value of their labors- 
Their's is the only department of duty and business, which 
converts the children, who would curse and destroy a Coun- 
try, into wise and virtuous men, to honor, bless and protect 

'It. They are able to re-produce, as it were out of nothing, 
an intelligent, just and generous people, in each succeeding 
generation. Banish instructors from your land, and the next 
would be a race of semi-barbarians. Multiply them tenfold, 

'aad do you doubt that you multiply inc«tleulably the chances 



m 

df the next deration for happiness ? We should regal'd as 
among the most interesting and valuable of Teachers' Ly- 
ceums, that which would be formed by Female Instructors. 
As a general rule, womeft are superior to men in the art of 
enlisting the affections and commanding the attention of youth ; 
and in the art of governing them and of communicating 
knowledge to the young mind. "Still, great advantages would 
result to themselves and pupils, if Lyceums were formed of 
Female Teachers^ for the purpose of conferring together; of 
exchanging modes of teaching and discipline, and experience ^ 
and of mutually encouraging^ aiding, and strengthening one 
another. Where the text book and studies are the same^ 
there can be no objection to a Teachers' Lyceum, composed 
of Instructors of each sex. Each sex would then share in the, 
advantages to be derived from the peculiar education, traits of 
character, tact and experience of the other. There could be 
no more objection to such meetings, than to the customary 
intercourse of the same persons, when forming afsocial circle. 
Indeed, the sense of duty and the important objects, which 
bring them together in the Teachers' Lyceum, would be suffi■^ 
cient guarantees to the most delicate sense of propriety. 

With these sentiments as to the dignity and value of tfe 
'i'eachers' office, we feel that the most important of the whole 
class of Professional Lyceums, is that appropriated to Teach- 
^i*g. No set of men in the community are likelj^ to derive 
from the Lyceum System, equal advantages with Instructors^ 
*rhey dre emphatically both learners and Teachers. They 
must be continually learning, to fit them the better to teach. 
"Now the Lyceum is peculiarly a system both of learning and. 
teaching. It is, therefore, peculiarly, appropriately their's. 
We trust, then, that Teachers will be among the first to form 
Lyceums, and among the most zealous, energetic and pierse- 
vering in carrying on the exercises. Let us exemplify, in a 
few instances, the advantage to instructors from such an insti* 
iution. "V^^ snppose^a Teachers' Lyceum formed, Can the,;? 



31 

be at a loss for employment ? One of the most important 
branches of their business, is the selection of class books. 
Now, if they devoted an evening every week for a whole year 
to the examination of the various books in Geography, Gram- 
mar, History, Arithmetic, Reading, Elocution, &c. &.c., will it 
be doubted that they would be better satisfied with their, 
choice, and that their scholars would profit by it ? Are not 
discipline, rewards and punishments, the general treatment of. 
scholars, and the duties of parents to teachers, most important 
/considerations with Uiem, and of the deepest interest to the 
community? Would not an interchange of opinions and 
experience on these topics, once a month for a year, be of 
great valued Suppose the Lyceum were to lay aside on^ 
evening every month for the considel^tion of the nice and 
difficult points in construction and parsing, which every 
teacher occasionally meets with. Assuredly, no Teac.hei; 
would doubt the value of such an exercise. Suppose a dozen 
persans, engaged in teaching Latin, were to set aside one ever 
iujig every month for the examination of the Syntax or Pro-^ 
^ody of the language, is it not manifest that such a series of 
exercises must render them better teachers, than they could 
have been without it t If the number of Teacliers be suffi- 
cient, tbey would naturally establish an English, a Classical, 
and a Mathematical Lyceum. Here, as in every thing else, 
the division of labor would produce great results, and the 
community would be the gainers, as indeed they will always 
i)e, the greater the number, and the more successful the opera- 
tions of Lyceums. Would not a Sunday School Lyceum, to 
meet every Saturday afternoon, with a view to the instruction 
of j-the next day, be an acquisition to that wise and benevolent 
scheme, the Sabbath School System 1 If the Teachers would 
study the lessons during the week, and meet thus for mutual 
examination, would they not animate the lukewarm, enlighterx 
the ignorant, and fill one another's hearts with stronger faith, 
livelier hope, and love more stedfast, mire and fervent^ 



We have dwelt thus at large upon Teachers' Lyceums ; 
because we are convinced, that we cannot well overestimate 
their importance. We feel satisfied if there be any one de- 
scription of Lyceums, above all the rest in value, it is the 
Teachers'. The whole theory and practice of education, the 
improvement in modes of teaching and discipline, the prepa- 
ration and selection of text books, are all in their hands. In- 
tellectual education is ahnost entirely their province : moral 
education is so to a great extent : and the same is true of sen- 
timents, temper and manners. We cannot, therefore, hesitate 
in placing the Teacher's Lyceum ahead of all others, in point 
of extensive, permanent and diversified value to the commu- 
nity. We do, then< earnestly exhort Teachers to make a be^ 
ginning at once : *and if there be but two or three, to set the 
example of establishing Lyceums, and of carrying them oii 
zealously and punctually at least once a week. 

Let us now speak of other Lyceums, specific in their ob-, 
jects, but not professional.. Such, for example, is the Lyceum 
of Natural History, including both animate and inanimate 
Nature, It is needless to say any thing in recommendation of 
such a Lyceum. All who realize the wisdom and benevolence 
of the Creator, as displayed so profusely in the structure and 
operations of the visible world, must acknowledge its value. 
By the help of specimens, which can be obtained in various 
ways, an interest is awakened in the outward creation, which 
is fitted to enhance our conceptions of the power, skill and 
goodness of God. The general establishment of Lyceums of 
Natural History, would furnish a most abundant supply of spe- 
cimens ofr exchange : since every section of country has iis 
peculiarities in Animals, Plants and Minerals. Let the amar 
teurs in Natural History unite together in Lyceums, and b}' 
4;ordial co-operation, make abundant collections, and establish 
a regular system of interchanges of specimens with other 
Lyceums throughout the Union. We cannot but recommend 
t\%Q subject of Lyceums to the cultivators of the Orchard and 



33 

Garden. Fruits aiid flowers, besides their beautiful variety of 
forms and tints, which make them attractive to all, create a 
peculiar interest in the bosom of those who have reared them^ 
Why should not such persons meet once a fortniglit to read 
and converse together on subjects so full of fascination 1 If 
there be any particular description of Lyceum, which exceb 
all others in the t^apacity for awakening and gratifying curf- 
<)sity in the generality of persons, especially in the young, it 
is that dedicated to the cultivation of the various departments 
of Natural Histor}^ - 

2. How many are lovers of works of taste 1 What a 
charming Lyceum might they establish, for the study of the 
best poets'? Suppose a night once a week devoted to the 
study of poetry, with the aid of the best critics and commen- 
taries, w^hat a sensible improvement v.ould be made in that 
time, in the refinement of our taste and the accuracy of our 
knowledge ! Take an example. Let such a Lyceum be 
formed, composed of a dozen members ; and let them take up 
and study iix succession Aristotle's Poetics, Horace's Art of 
Poetry, Longinus oh the Sublime, Vide's and Boileau's Art of 
Poetry, and Pope's Essay on Criticism. Can we doubt the 
advantages to be derived from such a course of study, in point 
of literary improvement ? 

3. Suppose a Lyceum of Political Economy : and let a 
siiccession of years be devoted to the study of standard books 
on the subject. Is it necessary to say, that the members of 
Auch a Lyceum, after the diligent study of the best English 
^od French writers, would be better fitted to exercise a safe 
and wise influence, both as public and private men, in regard 
10 the important interests of Commerce and Navigation, of 
Agriculture and Manufactures, of Banking ^and the general 
money concerns of the Country. 

4. We make the same remark of Constitutional Law. If 
a Lyceum were formed, with a view to the- study of the Na- 
tional ajid f?tate Constitutions : and of the best text booksj 



34 

SLUch as the Federalist, and the writings of Jefferson and Ma* 
dison on the subject ; and, in addition to these, of the princi- 
pal decisions of the State and National Tribunals on such 
matters ; t?an it be doubted, that the members would be bettea* 
instructed in the facts, principles, reasonings and illustrations 
of this very important branch of political philosophy'? We 
do not propose such a Lyceum for the Members of the Bar 
only ; but more especially for the sa]i:e af intelligent men 
generally. It seems to us, it would be fastidious to object to 
such a Lyceum, on account of party politics ; for then such a 
Lyceum never could be established ; because the experience 
of the past and present has always exhibited party politics, fis 
inseparable from questions of Constitutional Law. If the 
works, proposed as Text Books, contain the truth, all will ad- 
Iftiit, that they ought to be thoroughly studied. If they d.o not 
contain the truth, their very authority makes it peculiarly obli- 
gatory to be masters of them. It is equally our interest and. 
duty. 

5. One other illustration of the application of Lyceums^ 
and we shall pass on to other views. How admirably may 
they be employed for the cultivation of the dead or of living 
languages 1 Take half a dozen persons, disposed to improve 
their knowledge of Greek or Latin, by the study of some of 
the best writers, say Honker and Virgil. Even if they did not 
look over ^le appointed lesson before they met : and then 
plied their dictionaries and grammars around the table; it is 
obvious, that a year thus spent would produce results equal to 
Iwo or three of private study. In point of taste, accuracy, 
and general knowledge, their improvement would be very sen- 
sible in two or three years, if not in one. As to the modern 
languages, would not such a Lyceum furnish not only admira- 
ble means of advancing in the knowledge of modern tongues, 
in reading and writing; but also the very best means of be- 
coming masters of them, as living tongues. A Lyceum devot- 
ed exclusively to Frenqh for example, a§ a living language, 



35 

would" make a very sensible difference, if not a total change, 
in a single year. The same remark applies of course to 
Spanish, Italian and German. 

We might suppose, in like manner, a Lyceum formed, for 
the cultivation of any one of the sciences, or any one of the 
fine arts ; and it would be easy to show, that great advaijtaifges 
•must result to those engaged in each of these pursuits, from 
weekly meetings fof their study. Every one's experience has 
f aught him, that several minds acting together on the same 
subject, make a more rapid and thorough improvement in any 
given time, than all, with the exception perhaps of some one 
superior mind, could make separately within the same period. 
There are tlu-ee main causes of this. 1. The attention is 
more active, and is kept more steadily fixed. 2. Several 
minds brought to bear together on the same subject, take very 
different views, and thereby excite inquiry, and furnish new 
materials for intellectual curiosity. And 3d, a friendly useful 
emulation is continually called into exercise. Thus, these three- 
cause enlivened attention, a more active curiosity and laud- 
able emulation, produce the happiest effects, and carry for- 
ward every mind with accelerated velocity^ in its career of 
improvement. 

We cannot close our remarks, under this third head, with- 
out adverting to the value of the Lyceum System to the Fe- 
male Sex. In the Family and the Social or Neighborhood 
Lyceum, they would enter as a matter of course ; and many 
of the other specific Lyceums would be impi^oved by their 
admission. In all those braaches, whifch are common to the 
education of both sexes, there could be no impropriety in their 
partaking in the exercises of reading, composition and con- 
versation. Many of the Lyceums, especially the Professional, 
would not be open to Ladies ; because the studies there pursued 
are not appropriate to them. But could not Mothers find an 
advantage, in meeting together once a week, to confer on their 
tlnties aud interests ? How much is to bo gained by the expe* 



36 

inehce of elders, especially when aided by religion and edu- 
cation'? Young Mothers, to whom the future is^ so full" of' 
uncertainty and anxiety, would find such a Lyceum of inesti- 
mable value. If the best writers were to be successively the 
text books for reading and conversation, can any one doubt 
the substantial profit, that would be derived from such a,- 
course 1 Meeting at one another's houses^ it would be at once 
a social, and domestic institution. Regarding the female sex 
as possessing a large and well deserved share of influence, not 
only in the formation of the early character of children, but 
over the other sex, thro' the whole range of social life,^ we 
de^re to see the means both multiplied and improved ,^ which 
are fitted still more to enlighten, strengthen and extend that 
influence. 

Independently of Lyceums, founded on the peculiar char- 
acter and duties of the members, why should not Ladies meet 
together once a week, to read book& of History, Literature^ 
Poetry, Biography, Travels, or any other 1 We long to see 
more of a spirit of intellectual improvement abroad in our 
land,, among both sexes : And as we believe, that the reJ^ned 
and cultivated minds of women, will be more apt to produce a 
corresponding taste among men,, than the reverse, we do, 
therefore, anxiously desire to see a large number of Female 
Lyceums, established throughout the State. 

IV. We have now arrived at the fourth division of our sub- 
su1)ject, viz. the advantages and results, that may be expected 
to flow from the general establishment of the Lyceum System. 
We believe that all of these will be so obvious, as to consti- 
tute a most reasonable and powerful recommendation of the 
plan. The following, then, may be stated as among the most 
prominent benefits and important consequences of the Lyceum 
System. 

1. The Lyceum System interferes with no other scheme of 
improvement: and is, on the contrary, auxiliary to them alL 
Tf, in a fe^ instances, it should supeixede some debating 



^1 






Sjaciety or social filleting, it will only be to substitute itself as a 
more complete and efficient institution, or to re-produce the 
other, in a new and better form. The striking peculiarity and 
advantage of the Lyceum plan over all others is, that it coni^ 
bines in one institution, and applies from time to time, all the 
various modes of moral and intellectual improvement, the Ly- 
ceum employing Lectures, Essays, Debates and Conversa- 
tions, as the instruments of mental cultivation. Each of these 
methods may be successfully adopted in most of the different 
kinds of Lyceums, and the last in all of them. 

2. It is in our view a strong argument in favor of Lyceums, 
that they are in such perfect harmony with the spirit of the age 
in which we live. We allude to its conspicuous characteris- 
tic, as an age of socidl enterprize^ in all the various depart- 
ments of duty, and business, and general improvement. The 
Lyceum System proposes to meet in the fullest manner the 
demands of this spirit, by an organization, which recognizes 
its high authority arid all pervading influence. It proposes h^ 
a coiribination of various modes of action, to add new strength 
and animation to this spirit, and to enlarge and diversify the 
field of its usefulness. Let the Lyceum System be extent 
sively adopted through all the States and Territories of our 
Union; and it is not obvious, that a million and more of mem- 
bers, actiixg weekly on the principle of social and benevolent 
enterprize, must pl'odilce results, absolutely incalculable in 
every department of duty and business, in which that spirit 
presides. 

3. It is a Standing objection against all classes of men, that 
There or less of a spirit of jealousy prevails among them, which 
is unquestionably hostile to the improvement of each indivi- 
dual, and of the whole body, as a department of society. 
Such a spirit undoubtedly has the effect of lowering the stand- 
ard of character both of individuals and the class. The Ly- 
ceum System has a powerful tendency to counteract this 

degrading and pernicious sentiment. Its peculiarly social 



■ m 

character, and the application of social means of improve-' 
hient, to the duties and business of each calling in life, cannot 
but have a salutary effect, in binding together more cordially 
and beneficially fhan they ever have been, the members of the 
same Profession or Trade. It appears to us a sentiment 
worthy of extensive circulation, and entitled to a commanding 
influence in a Christian and Republican community, like ours, 
that the elder members in every branch of business, ought to 
regard themselves, and ought to desire that their juniors should 
regard them, a§ Fathers or Elder Brothers. The knowledge, 
experience and improvement of mind which the senior has 
Gained, whether he be a Clergyman, Physician or Lawyer, 
a Planter, Merchant or Mechanic, are, when rightly consi- 
dered, the property of his Country ; because every citizen 
belongs to his Country, and is bound to promt)te her advance- 
ment in virtue, intelligence, prosperity and happiness. Now, 
one of the most natural and obvious modes of doing this, is to 
contribute his ample share to the improvement of the Trade 
or Profession, to which he belongs. And what method so 
effectual for the attainment of this end, as the formation of 
Ijyceums embra,cing elder and younger, experienced and inex- 
perienced members of each branch of business^ There, the 
very objects of the meeting would lead to a frank, cordial and 
kind intercourse. This would contribute very much to mode- 
rate, if not entirely to banish that species of jealousy, which 
rather thro' custom than design, prevails more or less in all 
trades and professions. It is an obvious conclusion, from the 
preceding result of the Lyceum System, that it would have a 
strong tendency to elevate and purify professional character, 
by infusing into it, a larger share of rectitude in principle, 
liberality in sentiment, benevolence in feelings, and usefulness 
in conduct. 

4. We assign, as another important reslilt of the Lyceum 
System, that it is essentially a plan of self-instruction, and of 
mutml i^struGtimi. It is the former j because in. every de» 



39 

partment of llio Lyceum scheme, to whatever science, art qi 
business it may be devoted, it is indispensable to the progress 
of the members, that they should prepare themselves before 
hand with a view to the exercise, in which they are to be em^ 
ployed. It is also a system of mutual instruction, as purely 
voluntary and gratuitous, as the Sunday School System; 
except that each will derive greater or less benefit, according 
to his actual state of improvement, the punctuality of his 
attendance, and the zeal with which he engages in the exer- 
cises. This spirit of self-instruction and mutual instructionj 
which pervades the whole, (for each is to be more or less the 
teacher both of himself and others) confers on the mind a 
practical discipline and command of its powers, entirely un-*- 
known to the great majority of those who are not members of 
Lyceums. 

5. May we not state, as another argument in favor of the 
plan we are recommending, that it furnishes so convenient, 
simple and yet effectual a method, for the preservation of large 
portions, if not of all the knowledge we bjring with us, 
from the School, the Academ}' , and the College. Every one 
is sensible how speedily these acquisitions disappear: and 
how, almost before we are aware of it, we find in a few years, 
whilst engaged in preparatory studies, or in actual business, 
we are stripped of a large part of the intellectual wealth, 
which we had previously accumulated. To acquire know- 
ledge, and with it principles and discipline of mind, is the ob- 
ject of education : and tho' we preserve much of the two 
former, yet we lose much of the latter. The object and effect 
of the Lyceum System is, to enable every one to preserve 
most of each, whilst at the same time, he is continually im- 
proving his intellectual discipline, giving more of stability and 
correctness to his opinions, and rendering his knowledge more 
extensive, accurate and accessible. These are great advanta- 
ges ; but we do not over-estimate them ; when we say, that 
no solitary efforts can produce any thing like them in the great 



40 

majority of peiisons ; because they need the aid of social im- 
pulse and influence. It is matter of fact, that the great majo- 
rity have lost, at early manhood, almost all they had acquir- 
ed : and never attempt to regain it. This system provides for 
the necessities ,of all this class of persons. It takes them by 
the hand, as they leave the Schopl, Academy and College; 
and subjects them at once to the virtuous, rational and bene- 
volent, social influences of Lyceums, 

6. There is another benefit, intimately allied to the preced- 
ing. A yoimg person, when he has finished his education, as 
jt is called, is apt to become the victim either of a feeling of 
despair, at finding how little less than impossible it is, for him 
to preserve what he has learned, or he is unhappily a prey to 
the notion, that having finished his education, he has nothing 
to do with the. past and its studies ; but only needs to study a, 
profession. Both of these are lamentable states of mind ; and 
yet we believe they are the destiny of a majorit)^ perhaps 
we might safely say, of a large majority of young persons. 
The Lyceum System foresees, and provides wisely and benfe- 
vplently for both. From the one, who desires to preserve his 
knowledge ; but soon becomes fusible, that he cannot do it 
by any private, unassisted efiorts, she banishes all feeling of 
despair, and fills him with animating hopes, by pointing to the 
Lyceum, as an effectual antidote to his painful and gloomy 
anticipations. Him, who imagines that he needs not review 
the past, nor attempt to preserve its fruits, she invites cordi- 
ally and considerately to the Lyceum Hall; and there sets 
before him new views, motives and means. She saves the 
former from the ignorance of despair : the latter from the 
ignorance of presumption. 

7. Is it not a very important consequence, of the two li^st 
operations of the Lyceum System^ that it exercises a most 
salutary and lasting influence on the cause of education, in 
one striking point of view. How many persons would gladly 
assist m the education of their Ghildcen : but by the time they 



41 

become Parents, tliey have lost all tliey had acquired. Tha 
only alternative presented to ihe great majority is, either to 
begin over again : and who has ever done it? or to give up as 
hopeless, any attempt to assist their Children. The Lyceum 
System provides for this serious defect : and not content with 
preserving for those who desire it, the requisite knowledge, to 
enable them to act as auxiliary Teachers, of their own off- 
spring, it warns betimes, the thoughtless or negligent of the 
error of their ways, and counsels and persuades them to pre- 
serve these means of duty and usefulness, for the sake of 
their Children, 

8. It is one of the most striking defects in the present sys* 
tern of education, that it has no tendency to create and pre- 
serve in Youth, a taste for readings and the spirit of inteltcc- 
tual improvtment. The testimony of all experience attests 
this lamentable truth, in regard to the great majority of those, 
who come out of our Schools, Academies and Colleges. All 
admit the evil to be great; and if it be not remediless, at all 
events to be actually unremedied. The Lyceum System 
offers an admirable method of creating, where it did not existj 
or of strengthening and extending, where it did,- this taste for 
reading, and habit for mental cultivation. The means and 
motives afforded are adequate, if rightly employed: ana who 
will deny., that the general prevalence of the system, becomes 
Itself a safeguard against the very evil we are deprecating t 

9. Intimately connected with several of the preceding rea- 
sons, is another happy result of the Lyceum System. To 
what an extent must it not be expected, that a great change 
for the better, will take place in the materials and spirit of 
conversation, not only in families, but in social circles 1 One 
of the natural effects of the Lyceum System is, to furnish a 
rich variety of valuable and interesting knowledge, instead of 
cthe common and idle topics, which now constitute ninety-nine 
hundreths of all conversation in domestic and social circles. 
It is a happy circumstance, that one of the effects of the Ly- 



42 

cdum System On the character of conversation, will be, to 
take away all appearance of pedantry and ostentation, when 
topics, connected with the arts and sciences, or with valuable 
and interesting knowledge generally, are introduced. How 
often does it happen, that many persons in a mixed company, 
are fitted for conversation of a very superior order, to that 
■^hich commonly prevails. They would rejoice to be freed 
from the heartless and senseless talk, which is going on around 
them; but the dread of appearing affected, and of giving 
offence, or of meeting no sympathy in those, to whom they 
might address themselves, seals their lips. How often does 
the same occur even in small companies ? But let the Lyceum 
System prevail generally, and false delicacy and liability t^ 
misconstruction vanish at once. To introduce truly valuable 
and engaging topics, becomes there perfectly easy and 
natural. 

10. May we not also say, that a higher standard of moral 
and intellectual happiness and pleasures, both domestic and 
social, must be regarded as another effect of the Lyceum 
System, connected with an improved taste in reading and 
conversation. This higher standard would not merely exist 
among those, who are its immediate subjects ; but would ex- 
tend its influence to all, who are liable to be affected by their 
sentiments and conduct. Hence, in the family, in social cir_ 
ties, and in the general intercourse with the world, they would 
^;?xercise a happy control over others, in the formation of their 
opinions and views of duty, usefulness and happiness. These, 
assuredly, are considerations of great importance, in the 
eyes of the Christian and Philanthropist, of the Patriot and 
Scholar. 

11. All that has been stated la favor of the Lyceum Sys- 
tem, receives additional confirmation from this further circum- 
stance, that its influence will not be confined within the limits 
already noticed ; but must necessarily have a very sensible 
and durable effect on the whole cause of literature, by creat?*- 



Ihg a vas^t number of readers, beyond tliose wiio now aid the 
cause. It is manifest, that the demand for works of every 
description must be increased many (old. Nor is this all. 
The efiect of an improved taste in reading and convers-ationj 
generally, must be, to increase the call for valuable an<' irtter- 
esting works ; and, doubtless, the Lyceum itself vvi;' bf- the 
parent of many such productions. The more you ru ihiply 
intelligent and well instructed readers, the more do yi-u iiiul- 
tiply the chances of having an increasing number of authors 
capable of meeting the demand. 

12. A further consequence may well bo assigned, as an 
argument in favor of the Lyceum System. Its tendency is, 
to enlarge the mind, to store it with useful and interesting 
knowledge, and thereby to make it more independent, by call- 
ing out and teaching it to rely much on its own resources.- 
This effect is enhanced too by the fact, that the 'system fur- 
nishes to each mind appropriate mecins and modes of improve- 
ment, adapted to its capacities, tastes and pursuits. And as 
it holds out so many various inducements to self cultivation 
and mutual instruction, it cannot but contribute largely to 
elevate and expand the multitude of minds, on which it is 
brought to bear. 

13. Let us state as the last reason, which we propose to 
assign in justification of our high opinion of the Lyceum Sys- 
tem, that it is admirably fitted to confer precisely that degree, 
and that kind of knowledge, which are so valuable to the Peo- 
ple of this Country. The Lyceum System does not profess 
to make Philosophers and Scholars : They can only be made 
out of the solitary Student, by the zealous and constant pur- 
suit of knowledge, with all the enthusiasm and energy which 
are indispensable to exalted success in science, literature and 
learning. It is evident^ that the great majority of the people; 
neither need nor desire to be Scholars and Philosophers* 
They could not be such, were they ever so anxious : and cer» 
tainly the public good does »ot- require it. The Lyceumj 



44 

ilien, ^oe^ not attempt to furnish to the generality of its mem- 
bers, a profound and comprehensive knowledge of Arts "or 
Sciences. Nor, on the other hand, does it hestow merely a 
smattering of knowledge. What it does give, is distinguished 
by the very opposite features. It is accurate, entertaining 
and valuable, popular in its character, and fitted to make its 
possessor in every respect, more intelligent and virtuous, more 
happy and useful. This, undoubtedly, is all that the people 
need to be, or can ever hope to be. The Lyceum Scheme is; 
then, emphatically and peculiarly the People's Systemv 
We trust, that the People of the State of South-Carolina, 
will avail themselves of the suggestions contained in this Ad* 
dress, and will establish every where these institutions, so 
republican in structure, so popular in their objects, and the 
means of attaining them. 

The results of the Lyceum System, so far as South-Gal-- 
olina is concerned, can only be judged of by the views fhat 
have been presented, explanatory of its character, objects, 
operations and advantages.. These, we flatter ourselves, are 
fitted to recommend the plan to the patronage of all who se^ 
a right value on usefulness and duty. We sincerely desire to 
see it extensively adopted, throughout our native State, v.ell 
assured that even in our day, if life be spared a few years 
longer, we shall behold her more flourishing, intelligent and 
happy, tkan she can possibly become, in the same time, with- 
out the agency of this system. To all, who acknowledge their 
obhgation to God, and their Country, to family, kindred and 
friends, to their neighbors, in the spirit of the good Samari* 
tan, and to all mankind, as brethren, we earnestly commend 
a scheme, which is able, we believe, to purify, adorn and blesa 
both public and private life. If but a tenth part of the good 
be accomplished, which, we are persuaded, the Lyceum Sys- 
tem is able to bring forth, the Literary and Philosophical So- 
ciety of South- Carolina, will be amply rewarded, for the time 
ttiey have bestowed on the subject. Then shall they rejoiccj 



4S 

that an opportunity has been afforded them, of making as tliey 
hope, no inadequate return, for the favors heretofore received 
from the Legislature. For ourselves, who have been honored 
with the responsible office of discharging this their debt of gra- 
titude to you, if this Address be unavailing^ may its failure be 
attributed to our imperfect performance of the duty. But if 
it succeed, suffer us to rejoice with a pure and lively thankful- 
ness, that ours has been the privilege so enviable and precious 
in a Republic, of contributing to the knowledge, virtue and 
happiness of the People of South-Carolina. 

On behalf of the Society, , 

THOMAS S. GRIMKE, ) 

HENRY R. FROST, M. D. } Committh. 

WM. P. FINLEY, ) 

Charleston, July ^Ist, 1834." 



46 



'ilie CoMiTiittee feel, that they should not do justice to the Society, if 
they did not acknowledge the obligations under wliich they lie to^Mr, 
Josiah Holbrook, of Boston. That Gentleman, on a visit to the Sotith^ 
^eing in Charleston last March, was introduced into the Society, at a 
special meeting, on the day of . The subject of Ly- 

ceums, and of Education generally, being then mentioned, Mr. H. 
drew up a rough draft of appropriate resolutions, to be offered to the 
Society at a meeting to be held for the special purpose of obtaining in- 
formation, and discussing the. nature, operations and advantages of Ly- 
ceums. Accordingly, the first meeting was held on evening, 
of , when Mr. Holbrook attended, and gave a full and 
ptirticular statement of the character and benefits of the system. Sev- 
eral meetings were afterwards held, when the two sets of Resolutions^ 
embodied in the Address, were adopted: and a Committee, consisting 
»f Thomas S. Grimke, Dr. Henry Frost, and Dr. Wm. P.Finley, was 
appointed to prepare an Address pursuant to the Resolutions. 

Mr. Holbrook has rendered important services to the cause of educa- 
tion and popular instruction, not only by bis personal example and in- 
fluence in vai-ious parts of the United States, but by the sxiccessful 
attention, which h€ has bestowed on the requisite Apparatus for the 
juvenile and more practical deparfihents of the Lyceum System. 

It was an admirable remark of Mr. Holbrook, that the amusements of 
children are frequently mischievous, simply because parents will not 
take the trouble to provide them with useful as well as entertaining em- 
ployments, during their leisure hours. Hence the importance of the 
family Apparatus, which he has devised, for the amusement and in- 
struction of children, in many matters depending on the senses of 
saght and touch, and lying at the foundation of useful knowledge in 
regard, tcr visible objects. Mr. H. has labored by precept and example 
to establish and illustrate a most important truth, too little believed or 
acted on, that it is quite possible to communicate to children earlier and= 
better than is now done, a large amount of valuable and entertaining 
knowledge, which may serve as the basis of extensive and scientific 
acquirements^ in youth and early manhood. The great secret, as' 
every one readily perceives, is to instruct, thro^ the medium of objects 
addressed to the senses: and to prepare the way for a more ready ap- 
prehension and thorough understanding of principle and theory, by an 
intii»ate acquaintanciTwith th'&fdtts, out of which they arise. 



47 

ill Rtldiiiou to the Family Apparatus, Mr. H. has also pix)vi(Ieda 
School Apparatus, and a variety of articles in the Geometrical, Astro- 
nomical, Chemical, Electrical, and other Philosophical Departments, 
tov the use of Schools or Lyceums. These may be had of the Agents 
for the sale of tlie Apparatus in this city, viz. D. W. Harrison, W. H 
Berrett, and E. Thayer, on application to them. Should they not have 
- tiiemon hand, they will procure tliem, as early as practicable*. 

Apparatus for Schools, AcadcmtcSf arM Lyceums, 

To advance the general interests ef popjilar education, and especially 
to facilitate the progress of Lyceums and Infant Schools, various arti- 
cles of apparatus for familiar and practical illustrations, are prepared 
under the direction of Mr. Holbrook, 

Prices.— Family Set. $5 ; School Set, $10 ; Philosophicals, $15 \ 
Astronomicals, $20: Chemicals, $25. 

Separate Articles. — Numeral Frame, $1,50; Globe and Stand, $1,50; 
Orrery, $3, 9, 15 ; Geometricals, $4 ; Maps of the United States and 
the World, 20 cenlii each; Map of the Solar System, 20 cts ; Sheet of 
Manuscript Letters, 12^ cts ; Sheet of Geometrical Diagrams, 12^ cts ; 
Sheet of Arithmeticon, 12^ ; Reflectors, $2; Mechanicals, $12; Cabi- 
net of Geological Specimens, $3; Hydrostatic Bellows, $3; Tide 
Dial, $4; Season Machine, $3,25; Whirling Machine, 37 cts ; Bason 
and Ball, 50 cts ; Earth and Moon, 50 cts ; Pyrometer, $2 ; Lamp 
Stand, $1,50; Eolopile, $1,50; Con<3uctometer, 50 cts. 

The subjects which the Apparatus is designed to illustrate, are Geo= 
inetry. Arithmetic, Natural Philosophy, Chemistry, and Astronomy. 

For Geometry, are two sheets of diagrams, fifteen geometrical cards, 
ibur transposing figures, twenty-six solids, and a book of questions and 
illustrations, or " Easy Lessons in Geometry." 

For Arithmetic, are one of the sheets mentioned for Geometry, or the 
Ai"itiimoticon, a mimeral frame, or Arithmometer, and a set of cubes. 

For Natural Philosophy, are the mechanical powers, viz. levers, sim- 
pie and compound, pullies, singleand multiplied, wheel and axle, inclin- 
ed plane, wedge and screw, air pumps, a frame for shewing compound 
forces, ivory balls, syphon, hydrostatic bellows, and such others as may 
,be ordered. 

For Chemistry, are a pneumatic cistern, lamp-stand, flexible and 
glass tubes, eolopile, pyrometer, cylinder for making gases by heat, 
compound blow pipes, flasks, retm*ts, crucibles, &c. 

For Astronomy, are an orrery, or a simjile representation of the solar 
j^ystem, showing the comparative size of the planets, distances from the 



* Mr. Holbrook himself will furnish the Apparatus described below, 
at the prices stated, according to a little pamphlet furnished by him to 
the Chairman of the Committee. 

The following articles will be furnished, safely and separately pack- 
ed, and made subject to orders from any part of the Union, on receipt of 
the sums annexed. 

Common School Apparatus, above specified, for - - - $10 00 
Lyceum Apparatus, viz. 
Mechanical powers and hydrostatic bellows, - - - - 15 00 

Astronomicals, 15 00 

Chemicals, - ; " " 25 00 

Air Pump, with appenda;ges for numerous experiments, 33 00 
^eometrieals^ ».--- 5 GOT 



48 

Skin, and motions, a1ide dial, tin instrument to shew the cause of a tidp 
on the side of the earth opposite to the moon, several for eclipses and 
changes of seasons, and one to show why the earth and other planets 
are flattened at the poles. 

For Infant Schools, all the necessaiy apparatus, consisting of prints 
for Natural History, accompanied with spelling and reading lessons, 
illustrating in Geometry, Arithmetic, and Astronomy, is prepared, and 
those articles of the Infant School apparatus fitted for common schools, 
can be furnished in any quantities. . 

For Geology, onfe hundred labelled specimens of the most valuable 
productions in the mineral kingdom, with a small volume to explain the 
ingredients, properties, and uses of each, are preparing, and will be 
ready for delivery soon. . 

In devising and collecting the above articles, and various others,, par- 
ticularly designed to ^how the application of science to useful arts, con- 
stant reference has been had to clearness of illustration,, ease of using, 
cheapness, and durability. 

In'being able to furnish apparatus for visible, familiar and practical 
illustrations in the essential branches of a popular education, and at 
such prices as to be within the means of any village, neighborhood,, or 
even of -individuals, it is believed that the gi-eatest obstacle to the gen- 
eral establishment of Lyceums, and to the introduction of a rational and 
agreeable mode of instruction into common schools, is removed. And 
it will probably be difficult to conceive of more direct or efficient mea- 
sures to raise the standard of education, or for the universal diffusion of 
knowledge, than for each town to procure a central deposit of appara- 
tus, specimen's in Natural History, and other instruments for conduct- 
ing familiar and popular courses of instruction, at weekly or other sta- 
ted meetings, attended by various classes and ages of the community. 

Uniform experience has pi'oved, what would seem to be the obvious 
dictate of reason, that the first step and sui"est measure, to secure the 
success of a Lyceum, or any other institution for practical and interest- 
ing instruction, is to procure the necessary apparatus. As well might 
a mechanic expect success without the necessary tools for performing 
his work, as a teacher, without the proper illustrations, for present-, 
ing his instructions in a clear, impressive, and agreeable manner, to the 
minds of his pupils. It is by seeing, more than hearing, that rapid, 
deep and lasting impressions are made upon the mind,, and especially 
upon the youpg and inexperienced. 

Facts communicated hi/ Mr. Holhrooli. 

Not less than two thousand cit}^, village and neighborhood Lyceums, 
are supposed to be in successful operation in the country ; probably not 
less than one hundred County Lyceums, fifteen or sixteen State Socie 
ties, and a National Lyceum, are also formed ; the principal object of 
which is, to give uniformity and efficiency to the seIC and mutual in-: 
struction of members of Families, Schools, Weekly Lyceums, &c. j 

Reports uniformly state, that these Lyceums have succeeded best^ 
where the exercises have been most mutual, or where the greatest num- 
ber of minds have been led to give, as well as receive instruction. 

It has been found, that no One subject or exercise is sufficient to sus- 
tain the interest of a Lyceum for along time; and that a variety of sub- 
jects are important, both by the novelty they furnisln, and hy the greatet 
number of minds they bring into exercise. 



49 

Stlioul, ur Juvenile Lycejims, have more seldom been given up, c.i' 
iQ.->t their interest, than those composed entirely of adults. 

Members, who pay an annual i'ee, whether gentlemen or ladles, are 
fnpro punetual and more attentive at the meetings, than thosAj who at- 
tend gratuitously. 

In hardly two of the thirty Lyceums in Boston, are the exercises the 
f^amc. In sonic, their principal exercise is lectures. Of these, some 
have lectures entirely miscellaneou.s, no two lectures, perhaps, being 
upon the same rad)ject, or by the same individual ; in others, regular 
courses are given, the attention being confined to one, or two or three 
subjects in succession. 

In some Lyceums, the exercises consist of lectures and debates alter- 
nately, each once in two weeks. Others have lectures, or essays, occu- 
pying not more tba.n ten or twenty minutes each, so as to give time for 
severatin thecotu'se of one evening. 

Two or three Societies pay their lecturers, who are Prof«!ssors of 
Cambridge College, or other distinguished men in the city or vicinity. 
Others have lectures from their members, or others who give them gra- 
tuitously, and in some instances, those who receive pay from other 
societies. 

One society makes Natur.al History a prominent object, and has the 
nse of a large Hall, well furni.'<l}ed with specimens, though inferior to 
the Museum of the Literary and Philosophical Society of Charleston. 

Several Lyceums are divided into classes, or contain classes of such 
members as wish to devote their attCRtion, especially to give their 
■i^ti'orts to some particular subjects. Their classes are provided with 
roonjs, teachers, apparatus, &c. at tiie expense of the society. Of the 
eight or ten hundred members belonging to one Lyceum, about five 
hundred belong to classes on Elocution, and Composition, History, 
French, and BookrKceping. Tlie otiiers merely attend the weekly 
lectures and discussions, which are miscellaneous. 

An xApprentices Lyceum has a library of about fifteen hundred vol- 
umes, and a small, but increasing cabinet of minerals', &c. They 
rijeet weekly, and give lectures to each other at their library room, ancj 
have classes for Arithmetic, Geography, and otlicr subjects. 

Ladies attend nearly all the Lyceums in the city, including the Ap- 
prentices' and are members of classes, and frequently the most active 
and punctual. 

Ladies hold meetings by themselves, and have for their exercisesr, 
reading, both their own compositions and selections from books, conver- 
sation, ami sometimes work for instructing the younger members in 
needle work, and for benevolent objects. 

In the country villages, Ladies' Lyceums intcrCv^t themselves in 
schools, vSo far as to visit them, invite the teachers (who are ladies dur- 
ing the snmmcr, where Ladies' Lyceums arc principally held) to meet 
them at their houses, where they have an opportunity to consult and 
aid each other. 

Motber.s' Lyceums have for their exercises, reading from some author 
on early education, such as the Mother or Child at Home, the 3Iothers' 
Book by Mrs. Child, Responsibility of Parents by Mrs. Hall, &c. The 
sj^bject of reading is made the topic of conversation, each stating cases 
in point, either ibr or against, from her own experience or observa- 
tion. 

Teachers' Lyceums hold their meetings in towns once a week, some- 
times twice a month; and in counties or district?, once a quarter or 
twice a year, as a part of the County or District Lyceum. 

The County Lyceums are not only attended by Teacl^ers^ but by 
tkei;- Pupili?. where they are spmetimc? furnished with all the interests 



50 

and €xcitemejiit, that they find at a military muster, or at a iiorse-race. 
Children have sometimes travelled ten or fifteen miles to attend such 
conventions. 

At these Quarterly Lyceums of counties or districts, minerals, planjgi, 
or other specuucns of nature, are carried to be named, exhibited, depo- 
sited or exchanged. This step gives a great impulse, and great aid 
and progress to Natural History, in the Village and Neighborhood Ly- 
ceums, as it does in schools and families. 

Miss , who has under her instruction, most of the year, from 

150 to 200 young ladies, who are already, or are designing to be teach- 
ers, says, that nothing has promoted the prosperity of her school SQ 
much as Lyceums, especially County Lyceums. 

Many School Lyceums have exchanged specimens of nature and 
art, especially of their own improvement, in drawing, ixeedle work, 
&c. &c. 

The School Lyceums in New-York, Have exhibited and presented 
specimens to the National Society, to be retained or distributed into 
diflerent parts of the countrj', by the delegates who attend the meet- 
in"^s. Several School Lyceums in Massachusetts, have forwarded 
specimens to New-Yotk, i'or the same object. They have also sent 
specimens into ^11 the towns in their own State, for the use of Schools,. 
Lyceums, &.c., 

A School Lyceum in Savannah, (Ga.) has i^orresjx)nded and ex- 
changed specimens with several Schools in Massachusetts, and with 
some in their own State, also with one in Ohio. 

Numerous Schools in Georgia, are now collecting specimens for 
tli^ir own shelves, for exchange, Jkc. 

The Louisville (Ky.) Lyceum, offered a premium of one hundred 
dollars, for the best essay on Common Education, which was awarded 
to Rev. Mr. Peer, of Lexirrgton. 

The American Lyceum, at their last meeting, offered a premium of 
three hundred dollars for the best work on Physical Education, embra- 
cing Anatomy and Physiology. 

The greater part of three hundred towns in Massachusetts, have 
procured Lithographic Maps, delineating their geographical and geo- 
logical features, with something of their history, statistics, &c. princi- 
pally by the agency of Lyceums. 

Before numerous Lyceums, sketches of Town Histories have been 
given, iind afterwards published in newspapers or pamphlets. In 
some instances, revolutionary sokliers have made statements, at 
Lyceum meetings, of incidents w^ith which they were personally ac- 
f[uiani:ed; which statements were recorded and preserved by jhe 
aociet}'. 

Before the St. Louis Lyceum, Sketches of Indian History were com- 
jnunicated, and afterv/ards published in newspapers and periodicals. 

The St, Louis Lyceum, has a cabinet of Indian Curiosities; and the 
New-Orleans Lyceum are collecting specimens of Mexican and South 
American Minerals, both of which are desirous of exchanging. 

The Williamstovvn (Mass.) Lyceum, encouraged the raising of Silk, 
by Essays on the subject, offering premiums, &c. 

The Massachusetts State Lyceum, during one session of the Legis- 
lature, had a weekly and semi-weekly course of lectures in the Repre- 
sentatives Hall, on various subjects of Political Economy, such as the 
pauper and penitentiary systems, roads, canals, fisheries, raising of silk, 
banking institutions, «&;c. &c. 

Seamen's Lyceums are established in New- York and Boston, and- 
have, in a short time, made collections of specimens, foreign and do-' 
me&tic, in nature and art, principally for exchanges, 



51 

The Sterling (Mass.) Lyceum, was established after a Dancing 
School commenced in the place, and children, who could not attend 
both, preferred the Lyceum. 

The current ordinary expenses of a town or other community, have 
uniformly been diminished by Lyceums, because they take the place of 
amusetiients more expensive, and at the same time less calculated to 
promote industry and economy. 

The Lyceum System, when fully carried out in all parts of the coun- 
try, will constitute a Teachers' Seminary, of which the 50,000 Teach- 
ers in our Republic can be members, not for a few months merely, but 
for life, and under such circumstances as will enable them to apply 
immediately every improvement they make, for the benefit of their 
pupils. 



c. 

MEAUSURES, AND FORMS OF CONSTITUTIONS. 

Measures. 

The measures proposed and already in progress to effect the objects of 
the Lyceum, are simple, and capable of being \iut'in operation, without 
^elay, in every town and neighborhood in the United States. Where 
liie first steps are not already taken, they are as follows : 

1. Let some person consult two or three others friendly to schools 
and general improvement, and with them agree upon a time and place 
for a public meeting, and cause a ziotice and invitation to be given ac- 
cordingly. 

2. At the public meeting, let a few simple articles for a constitution 
'be adopted, whicli proposes the payment of a small annual fee by each 
lady and gentleman, partly for mutual improvement^ and partly for the 
general diffusion of knowledge. 

3. Let the money designed for the immediate benefit of the members, 
be expended principally for tools, that is, for apparatus for visible illus- 
trations, for specimens in natural history, especially for geological spe- 
cimens, and for books. $75 will procure a set of lyccum apparatus. 

4. All who are disposed, agree to take some part in the use of their 
fools, for the benefit of others as well as themselves, or to instruct and 
entertain each other. 

&. Weekly meetings are held for mutual improvement by illustrating 
the sciences, reading from periodicals, discussing subjects of political 
economy, agriculture, the mechanic arts, practical education, or sucli, 
otiiers as shall be agreed upon. 

6. All the teachers, whether ladies or gentlemen, and especially thofee 
M'ho are not permanent residents in town, are invited to become mem- 
bers, ex officio, to attend the general meetings, and to hold separate 
meetings for the improvement of each other in relation to their schools, 

7. In country towns tire first classes, or the oldest pupils in all the 
schools, with other young people, are invited to become members by 
paying the usual fee for minors, and a course of instruction and exer- 
cises is provided for them, either at the general meetings of the Ly- 
ceum, or at meetings particularly designed for them. 

8. A portion of the money collected from memberships, may be put 
luidcr the direction of the district and state Lyceums, to be appropri- 
ated to itinerating district libraries, costly apparatus, employing agents 
for making surveys, or giving other aid to mutual eflbrts, j)aying the ex- 
penses of delf^gates who attend the natrona-l, state, or district Lyceimis, 



52 

or such otliei" measures for general diffusion as shall be deen-iQdi eSp6- 
dient, 

9. District Lyceums \\W\te conventions of teachers uVme a. yG^iv; once 
just after the commencement of the winter, and again just after the 
commencement of summe? schools. They also request teachers to 
make statements respecting their schools and education generally, in- 
vite familiar discussions, and such other exercises as the time and occa- 
sion may admit and call for. 

In this measure, the friends of schools in each toivn arc invited to co- 
operate, so far as to aid their teachers in being present, by furnishing a 
conveyance, defraying their expenses, &c. 

' At the meetings of district LyceuiKs, an opportunity is presented for 
teachers or others to learn the names of minerals, or other specimens 
they may have collected. 

10. State Lyceums hold annual meetings, to hear reports froi4> dis- 
trict sociciies,"discussions, lectures, or addresses, to recommend mea- 
sures for advancing the interest of schools and popular improvements 
throughout the state, and for Co-operating in measures recommended by 
the national society. 

11. A building for depositing the cabinet, consisting of apparatus, 
collections in natural history, books, &c., and for, conducting the va- 
rious exercises for mutual and general improvement, /or iceekly schcols, 
&c., are exceedingly desirable in every town; and whoever will ex- 
amine the numerous and important Uses of such buildings, will cer- 
tainly conclude, that in our smallest towns, principles of the most rigid 
econom}^, when fully understood, must induce their citizens to erect 
Lyceums, as places of instruction, and of ordinary public town busi- 
ness. 

12. The National Ljrceum holds an anniversary in the city of New- 
York, on the first week of May,, when representatives from all the states 
are invited to assemble for the transaction of business, a part of which 
is to furnish facts, statements, discussions, addresses, &c. Avhich will 
be interesting to all the friends of popular education. 



Mistakes, 

< 

1. Some have supposed that Lyceums could not be established and 
sustained, except in large towns; but experience has proved that they 
are more successful in small towns than in large ones ; and it is evident 
that they are more needed where tlie population is so small, or so 
sparse, that an academy or high-school cannot be supported, than in 
large towns and villages. 

2. Some have supposed, that gentlemen of literary pursuits are ne- 
cessary to conduct and sustain.! Lyceum; but ca^erience proves, that 
where they have been depended upon, Lyceums, after flourishing for a 
a few Weeks, have either whqlly failed, or become languishing ; while 
those supported by the members generally, and especially by farmers, 
mechanics, and other practical men, have increased in strength and in- 
terest from year to year. 

3. Some have supposed that Lyceums were designed and intended 
principally or wholly for adults; but experience proves, that where 
misses and lads, and even children, are made members, or in sOme way 
interested in the exercises, the societies have been more useful and 
moi-e interesting. In one instance, in which a Lyceum for children, 
under the patronage and direction ot a general Lyceum, carried on a 
course of rautuskl instruction, a la<J of eight years old was president. 



m 

and a boy of five years old pointed out, to his young associates, the 
principal features of the Geography of the county in which they re- 
&ided. 

For any violation of the laws of the society, or of decorum, a mem- 
ber was immediaiely expelled. 

4. Some have supposed, that if the subject which commenced the 
ej^ercises of a Lyceum, lost any of its interest, the society was failing, 
or must be given up ; but it is more according to the character and de- 
sign of Lyceums, to have a change and a variety of subjects and exer-' 
cises, than to continue the same for a long time. 

5. It ha« been a common mistake in Lyceums, to depend too much 
upon Lectures and other formal exercises ; and not enough upon a 
mutual, social, and familiar method of conducting their meetings. 

6. Many Lyceums have made a mistake in appropriating their funds 
to hiring lecturers, rather than to tools or apparatus for doing their own 
work. 

7. In County and State Lyceums, too much dependahce has been 
placed upon men distinguished for talents or office, without regard to 
their known interest in the subject of education; attd too little upon 
practical and experienced teachers, and other active patrons of schools 
and other literary institutions, 

8. Most Lyceums have been too selfish, or have confined their efforts 
and their funds too exclusively to their own improvement ;- and have 
not sent out enough effort or money for the diffusion of knowledge, or 
for the general improvement of society and the world. 



Constitution of a Town or Village Lyceum, 

[Many Lyceums have adopted the following or similar articles for 
their Constitution.] 

Article 1 This association shall be called the -^ (Branch of 

the American) Lyceum. 

Art. 2. The objects of the Lyceum are the mutual improvement of 
its members, and the general diffusion of knowledge. 

Art. 3. To effect these objects, they will hold meetings for reading, 
conversation, discussions, dissertations, illustrating the sciences, or 
other exercises which shall be thought expedient ; and as it is found 
convenient, will procure a cabinet consisting of books, apparatiis for 
illustrating the sciences, plants, minerals, and other natural, or artificial 
productions. 

Art. 4. Any person may be a member of the Lyceum, by paying 
into the treasury, annually, two dollars; and twenty dollars paid at any 
one time, will constitute a person, his, or her heirs, or assigns, to one 
membefship for life. Persons under eighteen years of age, will be en- 
titled to all the privileges of the society, except voting, for one half the 
annual sum above named. 

Art. 5. Three fourths of the money paid for memberships, shall be 
applied to the immediate benefit of the members, and appropriated to 
the purchase of apparatus, collections in natural history, books, and 
such other facilities, as may be thought expedient ; and one fourth may 
be put under the direction of the county or state Lyceum, and applied 
1o a county library, apparatus too expensive to be procured by town 
Lyceums separately^ agents for making surveys, or otherwise aiding 
the mutual efforts of members of the several Lyceums, paying the ex- 
j)enses of delegates to the national, state, or county Lyceums, or such 
other genera! objects as may be thouglit expedient. 



54 

Art. 6. The officers of this branch of the Lytfeum, shall be a Presi- 
dent, Vice-President, Treasurer, Recording and Corresponding Secre- 
taries, three or five Curators, and three Delegates, to be appointed by 
ballot on the first Wednesday of September, annually. 

Art. 7. The president, vice-president, treasurer, and secretaries, will 
perform the duties usually implied in those offices. The curators will 
have charge of the cabinet and all other property of the Lyceum not 
appertaining to the treasury, and will be the general agents to do any 
business for the society under their direction. The delegates will meet 
delegates from other branches of the Lyceums in this district semi- 
annually, to adopt regulations for their general and mutual benefit, or 
to take measures to introduce uniformity and improvements into com- 
mon schools, and to diftuse useful and practical knowledge generally 
through the community. 

Art. 8. To raise the standard of common education, and to benefit 
the juvenile members of the Lyceum, a portion of the books procured 
shall be fitted to young minds ; and teachers of schools may be permit- 
ted to use, for the benefit of their pupils who are members of the Ly- 
ceum, the apparatus, books, and minerals under such restrictions as the 
association shall prescribe. 

Art. 9. The president or any five members will have power at any 
time to call a special meeting, which meeting shall be legal, if notice 
shall be given according to the direction of the by-laws. 

Art. 10. The Lyceum will adopt such regulations and by-laws as 
shall be necessary for the management and use of the cabinet, for 
holding meetings, or otherwise for their interest. 

Art. 11. The foregoing articles may be altered or amended by vote? 
of two-thirds present, at any tegal meeting ; said alteration or amend- 
ment having been proposed at a meeting, not less than four weeks pre- 
vious to the one at which it is acted upon. 

Constitution of a District Lyceum. 

Article 1. This association shall be called the District Ly- 
ceum. 

Art. 2. The objects of the society are to promote the interests of ly- 
ceums and schools throughout the district, and co-operate in measures 
recommended by the state and national Lyceums, for the advancement 
of popular education and the general diffusion of knovvledge. 

Art. 3, Tlie members of the society shall consist of delegates sent 
from the several town and branch Lyceums in the district, each having 
the right of sending three. 

Art. 4. The town Lyceums which shall unite in raising 50 cts. from 
each of their members, for the purpose of procuring a librar}^, appara- 
tus, an agent to oversee survcj's for maps, or any other object of com- 
mon benefit, shall enjoy these privileges as nearly as may be, accord- 
ing to the amount of money they shall severally pay for such conuiion 
object. 

Art. 5. The officers of the Lyceum shall be a President, three Vice- 
Presidents, a Recording and Corresponding Secretary, a Treasurer, 
nine Curators, and five Delegates to act in the State Lyceum. 

Art. 6. The president, vice-presidents, secretaries and treasurer, 
shall perform tlie duties usually implied in those offices. The curators 
shall be the executive committee and general agents of the society, 
and as such, whenever directed by them, \\\\\ procure a district library, 
apparatus, collections in natural liistor}^, a supervisor to aid in surveys 
for town and district maps, or perform any other duties to forward the 
special or general objects of the Lyceum, as expressetl in the second 
article. 



55 

Art. 7. The Lyceum will hold a semi-annual meeting to hear re-' 
ports or statements from town Lyceums and schools throughout the 
district, with discussions and addresses upon any subject reiaiing to the 
science or art of teacliing, and for any other arrangements for the spe- 
cial benefit of conventions of teachers in the district. 

Art. 8. The president or any five members shall liave power to call 
special meetings, under such restrictions as may be expi-essed in the 
By-laws. 

Art. 9. The above articles may be altei-ed or amended by vote of 
two-ti)irds present at any regular meeting. 

Constitution of a State Lyceum. 

Article 1. This association shall be called the Lyceum. 

Art. 2. The objects of the society, shall be the advancement of edu- 
cation throughout the state, especially through the medium of schools 
and Lyceums, and to co-operate witii other state jyceums in the gen- 
eral pur]>oses of the national institutions. 

Art. 3. The members of the society shall consist of delegates frora 
the several district Lyceums in the state, each having a right of sending 
five. 

Art. 4 The officers of the Lyceum sliall be a President, five Vice- 
Presidents, a Recording and Corresponding Secretaiy, a Treasurer and 
nine Curators, to be appointed by ballot annual!}-. 

Art. 5. The Lyceum will hold an annual meeting to hear reports 
from the several district Lyceums, of liie state of education, with their 
improvements, facilities, and prospects ; to hear discus.sions, addresses 
or lectures which nisy be pro\ ided ; to devise and adopt measures to 
introduce an unifonuand improved .system of education througliout 
the state, and to forward, so far as may be thought e.\i)edient, the mea- 
jiures proposed by the national institution for general co-operation. 

AiiT. G. A special meeting may be called by the ]iresident or cura- 
tors at any time, by giving notice of the same in five newspapers in 
the state, or in such way as may be provided by the by-laws, at least 
lliree weeks before said meetings shall be held. 

Art. 7. Annual or semi-annual convscc of lectures, maybe given ou 
tlie subject oi education, or general improvement, to be under tJie di- 
rection of tlic curi'.Iors, who Avill also use their endeavors to procure a 
suitable building, apparatus, books, collections in i|atural Iiisiory, ai;<{ 
such other facilities for tlie advancement of education, as tiie means 
provided them will allow. 

Art. 8. This constitution may be altered or amended by vote of 
two-ihirds present at any regular meeting, 

Constitution of a Natiojial Lyceum. 

Article 1. The society shall be called the American L3 ccum. 
Art. 2. The objects of the Lyceum, shall be the advancement of" 
education, especially in common schools, and the general diffusion of 
knovvledge. 

Art. 3. The members of the American Lyceum, shall consist as fol- 
lows: — 1st. Of delegates from state, territory, and district Lyceums, 
which are or may be formed, the nmnbcr of which delegates shall not 
exceed half the ninnber of menijsiers from said state, territory, or dis- 
trict in the national congress, and where an uneven number of cojigrcs- 
sional reprc,=eutotives is uHowed, tfie fraction shall be constTt'.ed in favor 



m 

of such state, tirhtoij", or district; but ho state, territory, or districtr, 
shall be restricted to less than three members. 

2d. Of persons appointed by the executive committee of the National 
Lyceum, from those states, territories, or districts, where no general 
Lyceum exists, or where no notice of delegations from those Lyceums 
shall have been received by the executive committee, at least three 
months previous to tlte tim« of holding the annual meeting of the Ame- 
rican Lyceum, under the same limitation of memfeers, as in the case of 
delegates from Lyceums. 

3d. Of persons invited by said executive committee, to attend said 
annual meeting from various parts of the United States, but who shall 
not be admitted to the privilege of voting for the election of officers, or 
any measures connected with the internal poliscy of the Lyceum. 

Art. 4. The officers of the Lyceum shall be a President, five Vice- 
Presidents, a Recording Secretary, as many Corresponding Secretaries 
as the Lyceum, at any of its annual meetings, shall deem necessary, 
and a Treasurer, who, with five other persons, shall constitute an Exe-- 
Gutive Committee, to transact any business for the benefit of the Ly- 
ceum, to be appointed by ballot at each annual meeting, and to= hold 
their offices until others are appointed in their stead. 

Art. 5. The Lyceum shall hold an annual meeting in the city of 
New-York, on the Friday next succeeding the first Thursday in May. 

Art. 6. Three persons shall form a quorum of the executive com- 
mittee, which shall hold its meetings in the city of New-York, and shall 
be empowered to add others to its number. 

Ar». 7. This Constitution may be altered and amended by vote oC 
tvvo-tJiirds of the delegates present at any annual meeting. 



I^f^l^^ 






J^^t^ 



m'^ 



w 

vu 



7^ 



Theljiterary and Philosophical Society ^ 



SOUTH-CAROLINA, 



THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE, 



Sr^c Classification, (tijaxucUVt atitr 3S|:crcises, 




"5^ '^i^ 



^d 



16 9. 








A 



.^'% 





°o 








^. A^ s-.. 













\^ _. --^^ 














<r '^ J 



.-1°^ 




^°-^<^. 



■ 0' 










rcC^WA^o ^^ ,^^ ,: 
















A. <^ ' ' » - s ' u' 

J 3 N O H -^ 




.♦^ 



0- 




1 o 



^^..^'^ 












5^, 






/*-.o..s..ot '»••• <^ .. <'^^*^'' ^^ .,. "V '°" , 

^ LIBRARY BINDINC > A^&'**''»'*^ O'-* O A^ 

i ST. AUGUSTINE ^0 -r-. » ^i^^^=^K> * ^4 P^ »'^^^^o lO -7-, 






LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 







'i''iiM&m 



